Oldham Athletic

Furman scores twice in Latics' win

Captain Dean Furman led by example scoring twice for Latics in their 3-1 friendly victory at npower League Two new boys Fleetwood Town. It was a terrific win for Latics who could have triumphed by a wider margin. And there was also a pleasing performance from new signing Cliff Byrne on his debut - he played the opening half at right back and never put a foot wrong. Furman gave Latics, who built a 3-0 half-time advantage, the lead with a shot from the edge of the box following a delightful passing move involving Lee Croft, James Wesolowski and a Portuguese trialist striker. The second goal, also scored by Furman midway through the period, also followed a slick passing move. Robbie Simpson added a third goal before the break sweeping home a shot after playing a return pass with Croft. Latics were in total command for the opening hour and could easily have scored six goals. As Latics started to make changes, the game petered out and Andy Mangham pulled a goal back for the hosts at the three-quarter stage, though the Boundary Park side was never seriously troubled. Manager Paul Dickov was delighted with the display declaring: "It was outstanding for an hour and we are beginning to look fitter and fitter. "It is also pretty obvious we need to sign the Portuguese striker we have on trial."