First team rue dropped points

HOCKEY: TWO games in as many days provided quite a challenge for Oldham firsts in Division Two South-West of the North Manchester Hockey League.

And while they were kicking themselves after letting slip a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 at home, they showed lots of character.

First up was Merseyside outfit Prescot on a blustery afternoon at Newman College. Oldham’s first game after the Christmas break was often spoiled by wayward final passing.

The home side went ahead when midfielder Rachael Johnson set up veteran forward Karen Rowley, who converted with aplomb.

Oldham doubled their lead in the second half. From another short corner the ball hit two defenders’ feet on the goal line, and while a penalty stroke could have been awarded, the advantage was played and forward Louise Howard, returning from injury, fired home.

Prescot reduced the deficit following a sequence of short corners, and then grabbed an equaliser leaving Oldham to rue two points dropped.

Oldham were beaten 2-1 by Alderley Edge 24 hours later, but they had the consolation of it being their best performance of the season so far.

Alderley Edge went in front early on but, showing plenty of determination, the visitors fought back and were level at half-time thanks to Rowley’s goal.

Both sides gave their all in the second period, but it was the hosts who nicked a late winner.