Honours even after fightback
Date published: 02 March 2011
NETBALL: OLDHAM, in third place with a game in hand, were pegged back by high-flying Bury YWCA in the Northern League.
The hosts had to settle for a 41-41 draw at the Hathershaw Sports Centre, despite leading at the end of the opening three quarters.
Some impressive scoring statistics — four successful attempts from six turnovers — helped Oldham to 13-10 advantage at the first break.
Charlotte Preston, with five out of five goals, and Sarah Brennan (eight out of nine), were in superb form.
Oldham continued to dominate, with five interceptions from captain Debbie Hallas (goal defence).
But patience was also needed by wing attack Suzie Chapman and centre Leanne Murphy to get the ball beyond Bury’s strong defence.
Oldham led 23-17 at the half-way stage, but a tactical change in third quarter from Bury saw them narrow the gap to 33-30.
The final quarter produced some thrilling netball, but it was the visitors who gained the upper hand to earn a draw.
College side hold on to title hopes
OLDHAM College’s netball side are still in the title hunt, despite losing their unbeaten record.
The North-West Colleges Central Conference team tasted defeat for the first time this term after a 38-19 loss at the hands of leaders Baines (Blackpool).
But they hit back with a comprehensive 34-8 defeat of St Christopher’s (Accrington), and now occupy second place in the table.
The local side are made up of 16 to 19-year-olds, and play their home matches at Oldham Sports Centre.
They trail Baines by five points — the amount awarded for a win — with two games remaining.
John Wildbore, further education sports co-ordinator at Oldham College, said: “The girls have lost only once this season, which is a tremendous effort.
“Sheila Ryan is doing a fantastic job as coach.
“Everyone involved with the team works hard, and it is obviously paying off on the court.”
