First-year scholar Jack Laird scored twice for Latics' youth team which was held to a 2-2 draw by non-league side Silsden in their first pre-season friendly, a fixture played at Chapel Road.

Latics twice held the lead only for the Yorkshire side to peg them back each time.

Striker Laird gave Latics a first-half advantage with a shot from the edge of the penalty area after Kyle Riley charged down a clearance from the Silsden keeper.

Coach Tony Philliskirk, who only had 13 players due to injuries, changed the system in the second half and Latics became disjointed enabling Silsden to equalise.

Latics hit back and the Silsden keeper pulled off fine saves to deny Ryan Burns and Riley before they regained the lead through an excellent overhead kick from Laird which looped into the roof of the net.

There were other chances squandered as Latics looked set to win by some distance.

They were punished for failing to take those openings as Silsden equalised with 10 minutes left through a superbly executed free kick from 25 yards.

Philliskirk viewed it as good workout coming at the end of three weeks of pre-season training.