Women endure a sorry weekend

HOCKEY:

OLDHAM women’s hockey club suffered a disappointing weekend in the Greater Manchester League.

The firsts’ run of victories in Division One came to an end when they were held to a 3-3 draw by Manto of Bolton, the second team succumbed 5-0 to Manchester University and the thirds lost 4-2 at home to Didsbury.

Oldham’s first string started brightly against Bolton, with player-of-the-match Karen Rowley converting a penalty corner.

But Oldham, the leaders, were unable to build on their advantage and instead hit a flat spot, which allowed Manto to equalise.

The Bolton outfit’s physical style of play continued to cause Oldham problems, and they went in front on the stroke of half-time.

Spurred on with the thought of losing their first game of the season, Oldham poured forward, and it was Rowley who again found the back of net.

Louise Howard put Oldham back in front with a great effort, but the joy was shortlived as Manto forced a late equaliser from a penalty corner.

The second team performed well — Nerys Evans was outstanding in defence — but Manchester’s finishing was just too good.

The scoreline, unfortunately, did not reflect the hard work put in by the team.

It was another blow for the seconds, who have slipped to seventh in the table.

Oldham’s third team fared little better against Didsbury.

They did get on the scoresheet courtesy of Rachel Geraghty and Fran Lees, but they could not to stave off defeat.

Deb Alcock and Katie Sullivan produced fine displays.