A LAST-minute try from Liam Sixsmith helped Bury Broncos to a 20-18 victory at home to Oldham St Anne's on Saturday that extended their winning start to the North West Men’s League Division Two season to five matches.

Victory moved them four points clear at the top, but a below-par display could easily have led to their first defeat.

The game started well enough for the Broncos as good hands from Adam Grundy helped him find Jonathan Tindale out wide and the winger went over for the opening score.

But Oldham got themselves back into the game, helped by numerous Bury penalties for offsides, and they ran in two tries to take a 12-4 lead into the break.

Playing up the hill in the second half, Broncos finally started putting some sets together and when Sean Kelly made a half break Warren Bluer was on hand to finish well out wide.

A fantastic kick from Harry Coleman put Bury within two points. Broncos then tested the St Anne’s line with a strong forward drive and birthday boy Steve Critchley went in with a great low dive to open up a four-point advantage.

But Oldham did not lie down and they capitalised on a stray off-load from Bury to score under the posts and go into 18-16 up with 10 minutes remaining.

As time ticked away a brilliant diagonal run from Sixsmith took him round four would-be tacklers before he crashed through two more defenders on his way over for the winning try.

Coach Dave Kelly said: “This was a nailbiting win that kept Bury at the top, but with stronger opponents to come in the next few weeks, starting with Halton Farnworth Hornets on Saturday, they will have to be much better.”

While the Broncos are riding high at the top of Division Two, the club is always on the lookout for new players. If you are interested in getting a game call chairman Ryan Lewis on 07412 802059.