Local club dominates top flight

HOCKEY: FOR the first time in their history, Oldham Hockey Club occupy the top two places in Greater Manchester League Division One.

The first team posted a convincing 5-0 home victory over Glossop to continue their excellent run.

Their supporters did not have to wait long for the first goal as Karen Rowley fired home from a penalty corner in the fifth minute.

Amanda Smith and Oona Cassidy made it 3-0 before half-time and two great second-half strikes from Louise Howard and Rachael Johnson completed the scoring.

Central midfielder Gill Jones was voted player of the match.

Despite the margin of victory, coach Kevin Jackson was not totally satisfied.

“We let off Glossop lightly – there is definitely much more this team can give,” was his verdict.

Oldham seconds won 2-0 at Bolton, but failed to capitalise on plenty of early pressure which saw them force a series of penalty corners.

Lisa Staniland converted a penalty corner in the second half, while Louise Howard smashed in a second goal to give Oldham three points.

Captain Jordanna Boon was handed the accolade of player-of-the-match for an outstanding midfield performance.