Point reward for resilient Oldham side

HOCKEY

A HARD-WORKING display from Oldham Women’s Hockey Club second team clinched a 1-1 draw against Didsbury Northern thirds in Greater Manchester Hockey Association Women’s League Division One.

With hailstones biting into their faces, Oldham took the sting out of their opponents’ tail as they dominated possession in the first half.

Player-of-the-match Donna Tindall was solid in the centre of defence, while Laura Rice produced a skilful display on the left wing, constantly hounding the Didsbury back line.

Rice also linked up well with striker Karen Rowley (pictured), who supplied the finishing touch to an excellent team move to put Oldham ahead.

Didsbury were much better in the second half and goalkeeper Jen Green had to be alert to deny the visitors.

However, a break down in communication allowed Didsbury to level.

Oldham were not deterred, though, and pushed forward in search of the three points.

They went close on several occasions and also had a goal chalked off, but were still happy with a draw against a good side.

OLDHAM’S first-team game was postponed as opponents Manchester University only had nine players and were unable to provide an umpire, while the club’s thirds had no fixture.