Low point for first team

HOCKEY:  

OLDHAM’S women’s first team suffered a shock 1-0 defeat at home to bottom of the table Wilmslow in North Hockey Women’s League Division Two South-West.

After a well-earned victory in the previous round, Oldham hoped to string a positive run of results, but were stunned by a gutsy performance by their lowly visitors to Newman College.

Lesley Beddow and Rachel Johnson were in commanding in the centre of the Oldham midfield, and it seemed only a matter of time before the hosts went in front.

But they were unable to convert a series of short corners while also finding the Wilmslow ’keeper in excellent form. Opposite number Sarah Simpson had to be alert to maintain parity.

The second half failed to live up to the first. Even so Oldham appeared solid - until a cross caused confusion and, after a scramble in the box, the ball hit the back of the net.

Oldham tried hard but couldn’t carve out an equaliser as Wilmslow’s defence held firm.

Next up for Oldham is Saturday’s away fixture against Prescot.