Head coach Steve Deakin has shrugged off suggestions that Oldham are failing to live up to pre-season expectations.

The Roughyeds are currently fourth in National League Division Two, have won 10 of their last 13 games and reached the fifth round of the Challenge Cup.

Deakin told BBC Radio Manchester: "Two years ago we never won a game.

"Now, we are in the quarter-finals of the Northern Rail Cup, we are in the last 16 of the Challenge Cup, and I think we really are in great shape."

He added: "We've now won 10 out of 13 games and I think we are in pretty good shape."

The Roughyeds are fourth in National League Division Two on points difference behind Barrow, and only trail leaders Doncaster by three points after the first five league games of the season.

Deakin added: "I am usually utterly ruthless in my assessment of our team and what we've got to do to go further than where we are at.

"I don't think the fans can ask much more from what we are doing for them."