17/07/2024
To the rest of the Rugby League community, Danny Craven might be the villain right now, given that he is sitting on a grade E charge of alleged abusive language to a referee, but to Oldham fans who recall his match-winning feats against North Wales Crusaders in Colwyn Bay earlier this summer, he is definitely a hero.
The 32-year-old former Widnes Vikings' half-back star was named player of the month and here he is (pictured) receiving his Brian Walker award from club chairman Bill Quinn at last Sunday's return game again against the Crusaders, which we won handsomely by 32-6. We were firmly on target to post another 'nil' for the opposition, but they scored near the end – a pity this because our terrific defence, the best in the division by far, was once again on its game, writes ROGER HALSTEAD.
It was a far cry to what happened when Danny Boy brought us back from the brink at Colwyn Bay with his late try and his even later match-winning drop goal from long range, which gave Sean's resilient comeback boys a win which had seemed highly unlikely when they trailed 24-8 deep into the second half.
Who knows, that 25-24 win, with Craven an outstanding match-winner, could make all the difference in our neck-and-neck race with Keighley Cougars for the Betfred League One title and all that means.
Our fab fans know that – hence their regard for Danny Boy, who did what so many special players do at times when it is needed most.
Said Danny, who was born in St Helens:
We managed to pull a rabbit out of the hat at their place. They are a good team with a lot of former Blackbrook lads . Hopefully, I'll be back in the team soon.
He didn't play last Sunday because it was believed to be in the best interests of all parties if he was overlooked, given that his disciplinary case has still to be finalised.
A lot of things will rest on the outcome – as it will with Johnson, who was shown red after a melee last week after the final hooter.