OLDHAM are keeping hold of Finlay Irwin, the forward who played twice for them this year after joining from Swinton Lions on a short-term deal in July.

The 21-year-old backrower who spent time in the development systems of both Warrington Wolves and Wigan Warriors before a spell at Brisbane Tigers has signed a one-year contract extension.

Irwin played ten times for Swinton before linking up with the Roughyeds, where his father Chris played as a winger in 2003.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Oldham,” he said. “It’s been good to learn from top experienced players who have played at a very high level.

“I’ve signed again because they are a class club who want to win the competition, and the players we have got are more than capable of doing it.”

Coach Alan Kilshaw (pictured), who took Oldham to the play-off last-four, said: “Fin made a really positive impression on us when he came into the group.

“He stepped up when called upon and showed he is more than capable of competing at this level.

“What excites us about Fin is the potential he has to develop into a really effective ball-playing middle.

“He has some good attributes to his game and we believe there is plenty of improvement still to come.

“With a full pre-season and more time working within our systems, we’re confident he can take his game to another level and become an important part of the squad.”