David Dunn hailed his side’s performance as their best of the season, as Latics came away from high-flying Gillingham with a fourth successive draw.
After falling behind early on, Oldham clawed their way into the lead just after half-time only to be pegged back and settle for the first away point Gillingham have let slip this season.
The game also marked the first time Athletic have scored more than once in a game, and a visibly delighted Dunn oozed confidence after the final whistle.
“It didn’t feel like a draw today,” the 35-year-old told the club’s website. “The performance was great and that could well be the turn in our season – I certainly hope so.
“It will do our players the world of good. The confidence that they should take from that game should be invaluable.
“They’re good players and they have just got to do it and believe in themselves.”
Dunn’s new-look side took on another couple of additions on the weekend, as Burnley loan duo Danny Laffery and Cameron Dummingam filled the full-back berths.
The pair were two of four loanees in the starting lineup, along with Swansea’s Jay Fulton and Michael Higdon of Sheffield United, but it was Dominic Poleon – exiled under former boss Darren Kelly – who took the plaudits.
“He was magnificent today; I thought he was the best player on the pitch.
“We all know he can do it, and I think he’s benefitting from the confidence we all give him. If he carries on like that, we have got a very good player on our hands.”
The 22-year-old’s improved performances are just one factor behind Dunn’s confidence, with the interim boss assuring fans that the club’s resurgence will continue to gather momentum.
“My job is to move this club forward. Whether it be two or three weeks or two or three months, the club will get better. Our results will improve.
“I back my ability, and I back my coaching staff’s ability to get the best out of these players.
“We’re lucky to have some really good professional footballers in that dressing room, who work their backsides off for the club.”
Oldham welcome fellow strugglers Scunthorpe to Boundary Park next weekend.
Image courtesy of Official OAFC via YouTube, with thanks.
