Oldham keep hopes alive

HOCKEY: OLDHAM firsts swept aside Glossop 4-1 to keep alive their title hopes in division one of the Greater Manchester Women’s Hockey League.

An early goal from Louise Howard settled any nerves in the local camp, and Karen Rowley quickly doubled the advantage.

Player-of-the-match, goalkeeper Sarah Simpson, pulled off a series of fine saves to preserve Oldham’s lead, although Glossop did manage to pull a goal back.

But a Laura Rice double clinched victory for Oldham, who sit a close second in the table behind Didsbury firsts.

They are also in with a shout of the double after reaching round four of the All Divisions Cup thanks to a 3-1 win over Didsbury thirds. Howard (two) and Yvonne Jackson were on target.

Meanwhile, it was a a bittersweet weekend for Oldham seconds in division one.

Buoyant after a 2-0 victory over Bolton seven days earlier — Jordanna Boon and Louise Howard got the goals — they performed creditably against high-flying Didsbury Northern firsts.

Although they were beaten 2-0, relegation-threatened Oldham produced a strong performance.

However, it was a different story 24 hours later against third-placed Urmston.

Goalless at half-time, Oldham had none of the spark of the previous day and went on to lose 3-0.

The thirds were unlucky to go down 2-1 against Glossop in division three. Oldham’s goal came courtesy of a penalty flick by Francesca Lees.