Raptors played local team Oldham Titans in this years National Shield 1st round. Raptors played the Titans twice last year and fully understood the challenge that lay ahead. Early season energy was abundent in both camps with Oldham making the best of the early advances with some great outside jump shooting. The Raptors using their new improved and more streamlined offence were soon back in the hunt with some great individual play from John Lindsay (21points) and all their "Big men" contributing well which was fantastic to see.

Coach Fry swopped and changed the squad an rotated the guys to find the best mix of players and as a result Raptors started to pull away. By the end of the 3rd quarter Raptors had firmly taken control of the game with Steven Gayle leading all scorers with 31.

The last quarter was plain sailing with some good play at both ends of the floor for Raptors.  Victory on Sunday has now earned the Raptors a home tie in the next round against Leeds Carnegie 2 on the 21/10/2012 (To be confirmed).
 
Picture - Raptors new big man Tom Sutton taking a reboun as Gayle watches on.