Match Preview: Oldham vs Dewsbury

Oldham are back in cup action this weekend to take on Dewsbury Rams in a bid to book their place in the fourth round of the Challenge Cup.

Dewsbury are unbeaten so far in 2026 with wins over Hunslet and Keighley but will be in for a tougher test this weekend at Bower Fold.

If Oldham advance, they will discover their fourth-round opponents during the live draw on BBC Radio Manchester on February 9, at approximately 6:40pm.

Team News

Recently-appointed head coach Alan Kilshaw has made two changes to last week's 21-man squad.

Both Jack Walker and Sam Littler are in contention for starts, having been brought into the initial squad.

They replace both Ben O'Keefe and Ryan Lannon, who came away from the London Broncos game battered and bruised and will miss out this weekend. Both players were assessed during the week, and while it is too early to judge the severity of the injuries, the club is optimistic the setbacks will not be long-term.

Matty Russell is closing in on a return to full fitness, with the winger now targeting the Widnes game, allowing him extra time to fine-tune his conditioning in training. Iain Thornley remains out long-term.

Head coach Alan Kilshaw spoke to Roughyeds TV, ahead of the Dewsbury clash here.

Squad in full: 1. Jack Walker, 2. Kieran Dixon, 4. Ben Davies, 5. Jake Bibby, 6. Morgan Smith, 7. Riley Dean, 8. Jack Ormondroyd, 9. Matty Wildie, 10. Owen Farnworth, 11. Matty Ashurst, 13. Adam Milner, 14. Cole Geyer, 15. Ted Chapelhow, 16. Ewan Moore, 17. Emmanuel Waine, 18. Jaron Purcell, 19. Harvey Makin, 21. Tom Nisbet, 23. Josh Drinkwater, 24. Marcus Geener, 25. Sam Littler.

The Opposition

A win over Dewsbury on Sunday would be Oldham's first over the rams since 2017.

Despite the poor recent record against the Rams, Oldham will be clear favourites going into the game against the side which finished fourth in League One last year.

Under head coach Paul March, they won 10 out of 18 matches in 2025 and have made a bright start to life in the Championship so far.

The side has strengthened, bringing in ex-Halifax second row Brad Graham, winger Tom Delaney on loan from Wakefield as well as former Featherstone centre Bailey O’Connor.

A win on Sunday could set up an exciting clash against one of the Super League sides.

Hospitality

Elevate your matchday experience at Bower Fold this Sunday. Supporters have the option of a two-course meal or a homemade pie and peas meal, served pre-match.

Enjoy pre and post match presentations hosted by compere Michael 'Braddy' Bradshaw in the excellent facilities at Stalybridge which include a bar serving a wide range of spirits and beers on draught.

Click here to purchase.

Merchandise

Our mobile shop will be back in operation this Sunday, selling replica shirts and brand-new, limited edition black and amber anniversary scarves and pin badges.

Tickets and access

Ticket prices are as follows.

Adult £18
Concession £13
Under 18 £7
Under 12 Free

Hospitality tickets are still available and can be purchased on our ticketing site.

For disabled/carer tickets, supporters are required to email kasey.smith@roughyeds.co.uk.

Both card and cash payments will be accepted at the turnstiles for those supporters wishing to pay on the day.

Fans can secure their place at Bower Fold, ahead of the game, buy purchasing tickets here.

Media coverage

There will be audio-only commentary of the game this Sunday from 3pm, Wi-Fi permitting.

Matt Horton will be in the hotseat with George still off. The free stream will be up and running from 3pm subject to there being no connectivity issues at Bower Fold. Make sure you are following all of our social channels for to not miss a moment of the action.

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We can't wait to see you with us at Bower Fold on Sunday afternoon - Let’s hear the Roughyed Roar!