Celtic Crusaders are one win away from promotion

In a game of two halves they overcame a spirited performance from Oldham, winning 18-32 in front of a record 4,327 spectators at Boundary Park.

The Crusaders' were six points down at half-time and not playing at their best.

Oldham's defence was resolute, with substitute Matty Brooks and Welsh international Rob Roberts outstanding.

The Crusaders did not do themselves any favours as indiscipline cost them, giving away four penalties, all of which Scottish international Gareth Morton had no problems in converting.

But in the second half the title favourites came out all guns blazing, scoring within a minute through Paul Ballard.

They then went on to knock up 26 points thanks to a brace from Mark Dalle Cort and a 75th-minute effort from Tony Duggan

Jace Van Dijk also did the business with the boot, thus denying Oldham a valuable bonus point.

This win means that Crusaders need to beat Gateshead Thunder in their final game of the season on Sunday week to secure the league title and the sole automatic promotion place.

Oldham Roughyeds: Ian Gordon, Byron Ford, Gareth Morton, Alex Wilkinson, Lucas Onyango, Adam Hughes, Neil Roden, James Coyle, Warren Stephens, Andy Crabtree, Richard Merville, Ian Hodson, Rob Roberts, Geno Costin. Subs: Chris Baines, Tony Tonks, Said Tamghart, Matty Brooks,

Tries: Morton (14), Ford (79) Goals: Morton 5/6

Celtic Crusaders: Tony Duggan, Paul Ballard, Rob Toshack, Mark Dalle Cort, Anthony Blackwood, Josh Hannay, Jace Van Dijk, Phil Cushion, Neil Budworth, Gareth Dean, Neale Wyatt, Darren Mapp, Damien Quinn. Subs: Grant Epton, Jamie I'Anson, Terry Martin, Chris Beasley.

Tries: Ballard (33, 41), Dalle Cort (49, 77), Duggan (75) Goals:Van Dijk 6/8

Referee: Gareth Hewer (Whitehaven)

Attendance: 4,327