The trophy was introduced for the pre-season friendly between the sides in July 2019. It was made possible thanks to the Dale Supporters Trust and Oldham Athletic Supporters Foundation who came together to fund the new trophy. Oldham currently hold the trophy following their 1-0 win at Dale in September 2021.
Ernie was treated for skin cancer in 2006 but suffered a reoccurrence two years later, and sadly passed away in the summer of 2008.
He played nearly one hundred games for Dale between 2004 and 2007 after joining from the Latics, where he had made 40 appearances. He proved to be extremely popular with both sets of supporters.
Forever in our thoughts, Ernie.
