Oldham stumble after flying start

NETBALL: OLDHAM let slip an early lead in going down 56-39 at second-placed New Cambell in the National Premier League Division One.

Taking the chance to rest defender Emma Dovey and shooter Karen Greig before their Superleague match for Northern Thunder, the visitors did welcome back England international Jade Clarke, under special dispensation to play in order to gain match fitness for the World Championships in July.

It was a flying start for the visitors in Essex, Clarke to the fore as Oldham held a 15-6 lead after the first quarter.

New Cambell then brought on Lyndsay Armitage, who had a major impact on the contest. The tall goal shooter helped to level the game at 22-22 at the halfway point.

Oldham were forced into changes and rested Clarke and wing attack Rachel Henry.

Goalkeeper Jodie Gibson had a big impact to turn the ball over six times in the third quarter, but too many unforced errors enabled New Cambell to cruise the third, 21-8.

And though the visitors never gave up — they lost the final quarter 13-9 — the overall result was comfortable for the hosts.

Coach Debbie Hallas said: “It was always going to be a tough, physical encounter.

“We started well but once they brought on Armitage we just couldn’t stop the balls into her and gave their feeders too much room.”

Oldham now face top-of-the-table Hucclecote on Sunday at Hathershaw Sports Centre (1pm).