Lift-off for Oldham after flying start

Photo: Chris Sunderland

LET’S GO . . . Oldham’s Emma Dovey sets up an attack against Linden.

NETBALL: OLDHAM moved off the bottom of National Premier League Division One with a superb 49-36 win over Linden.

The home side made a flying start and were soon 6-2 in front.

Oldham were also strong in defence and, despite wasting eight chances, were 11-8 up after the first quarter.

Tall goal shooter Krista Enziano replaced Kathryn Turner after the first break, and provided Oldham with a different option.

But the attack struggled and lost possession regularly in a scrappy period of the game. However, they still edged the quarter 10-9.

The third quarter saw coach Mike Greenwood ring the changes in attack, Turner coming back in her more familiar goal attack position, Maria McAndrew coming on at wing attack and Rachel Henry moving from wing attack to centre.

The changes had an immediate effect, with some quick moves and fast feeds from the impressive McAndrew and Henry.

Oldham dominated play, constantly stifling the Linden attack. Wing defence Rachael Taylor was outstanding, picking off the ball with ease and setting up attacks.

Her partnership with Henry in centre court worked well and Oldham stormed the quarter 18-8.

Goal Defence Emma Dovey, back after a European tour, combined well with goalkeeper Kerry Almond in shutting out the Linden shooters.

By the last quarter, Oldham were in control and completed a comfortable win.