Gemma plays vital role

NETBALL: OLDHAM’S Northern League side climbed to second in the table with a hard-fought 49-42 defeat of Northwich.

A tardy start — they missed three early chances — allowed Northwich to take an early lead.

But by the end of the first quarter, Oldham had found their range and had nosed ahead 13-12.

However, Northwich proved a tough nut to crack and only a point separated the sides (21-20) at the midway point.

The third quarter was again evenly matched, with Oldham managing to gain another goal over Northwich to hold a narrow 33-31 advantage.

There was still plenty to play for as the game entered the final quarter. Oldham upped their level of performance, with goalkeeper Gemma McDermott pulling off three crucial interceptions which instigated scores.