BOLTON Mets Rugby League side were back in action on Saturday after a three week break against co-league leaders Waterhead of Oldham. Home advantage had to be abandoned and the Mets travelled to Oldham.

After a sound start from Bolton, Waterhead broke away to score their first try. The Mets pressured the Oldham side with strong runs from centre Gaz Cartwright and second rower Mick Booth but they were unable to break down Waterhead's defence. Two further tries from the opposition gave them a 16-0 advantage at the break.

Into the second half and Bolton looked the stronger of the two sides with winger Gaz Hamer and stand-off Mark Dorning both being stopped inches from the line. Then, against the run of play, Waterhead added to their tally. Two new recruits for the Mets' Stewart Rogers and Dave Cain both had good games and helped to strengthen the Bolton pack, led by prop Steven Dorning. As the game entered into the final quarter the Mets' match fitness began to fade. Waterhead took full advantage and scored two late tries but still the Mets did not give in and continued to attack up to the final whistle.

Bolton's man of the match award went to loose forward Ryan Terry for his efforts in both attack and defence, closely followed by hooker Neil Walsh and prop Rogers.

This was a very physical game particularly in the second half and the Mets stood their ground. The 32-0 scoreline flattered the opposition.

Bolton's coach Rick Brookes commented: "I was proud of my lads today. The scoreline does not interest me if we play like that every match the results will start coming. Waterhead are a strong aggressive side. We ruffled a few feathers today and they didn't like it."

No game next week. The Mets are off to the Reebok to support the national side against the Aussies.