Jolly good show

Photo: Darren Robinson

CENTRE OF ATTENTION: Saul Prince (left), of St Joseph's and Leo Matthews (Fir Bank) battle for possession.

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HOCKEY: ST JOHN’S School (Failsworth) sprung a surprise to clinch the Mini-Hockey Borough Games Championship title.

In a tense final at Failsworth School, they defeated Hodge Clough 1-0 after extra time and, in doing so, won the right to represent Oldham at the Greater Manchester Mini-Games next summer.

Organiser Steve Tyrrell, of Oldham Sports Development, said: “I think it was a bit of a turn-up because Hodge Clough have spent a lot of time working on their hockey.

“They came so close, but were beaten by a good side in the final.

“Obviously it is a big incentive for these schools to represent the town at the mini-games, and St John’s will do just that next July.”

Other junior schools involved in the competition were Diggle, Friezland, South Failsworth, Bare Trees, St Joseph’s, Firbank, St Mary’s (High Crompton), Woodhouses and St Chad’s, Uppermill.

Tyrrell was delighted with the turn-out. He added: “Several schools brought two teams, so 15 sides took part.

“That is fantastic when you consider only four participated last year.

“Many people do not view hockey as a mainstream sport, so the interest shown in this year’s tournament was encouraging.”

Tyrrell also reserved praise for those who helped run the event.

He added: “We often have ‘young leaders’ who help to referee and keep things ticking over.

“On this occasion, the three students from Crompton House were superb.”