Errors prove costly

MARIA McAndrew made an impact in attack.

NETBALL: OLDHAM, fielding their youngest set of players for a Premier League fixture, went down to a 39-36 defeat against Hucclecote, of Gloucester.

Mike Greenwood’s side showed their inexperience in the final quarter as the hosts gained a match-winning advantage.

Despite missing Rachel Henry (centre) due to injury, as well as goal attack Kathryn Turner, Oldham started brightly.

Karen Greig displayed her quality by dominating the shooting circle and inspiring Oldham to a 14-8 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Hucclecote introduced a new wing attack, who was more mobile, and shuffled their defence, which now stood at more than 6ft tall.

Oldham began to struggle. They lost possession on numerous occasions and managed just eight attempts on goal, scoring five, in the period.

It was time for Oldham to make changes, with Maria McAndrew coming on at wing attack and Krista Enziano at goal shooter, with Greig switching to goal attack.

All-square at 19-19, it was make or break time for Oldham.

McAndrew made a difference in the attack, with fast feet and hands to feed the shooters.

Rachael Taylor, who was moved back to her more familiar position of wing defence, combining well with Kerry Almond and Emma Dovey to stifle the Hucclecote attack.

Oldham were in front entering the final quarter, but this was where their inexperience showed

McAndrew tried to carry the attack, but it was too much for her in such a high-intensity game.

Mistakes crept in to the visitors’ play and they were unable to beat their marker at crucial times.

Hucclecote took full advantage to nose in front with three minutes to go. Oldham had one final chance to level the game, but lost possession.