Toucans wings clipped as Preston impresses

NETBALL:

OLDHAM moved up to fourth in the Premier League with a 53-38 victory at Team Bath Toucans.

The game — rearranged after bad weather scuppered the original December date — saw Oldham emerge from the starting blocks at top speed.

Good defending from captain Kerry Almond and wing defence Rachael Turner saw the visitors turn the ball over with ease to take a 17-5 first-quarter lead.

Bath responded but positive attacking moves from Kathryn Turner and Alexa Collier (pictured shooting, left) helped Oldham edge the quarter to push the advantage to 14 points at the halfway point.

Oldham then took the chance to introduce 16-year-old Charlotte Preston for her Premier League debut at goal shooter, with Collier moving to goal attack.

Turner had a well-earned rest, as did the impressive Laura Malcolm, while Maria McAndrew came on at wing attack.

The Toucans also shuffled their pack with 6ft 1in Kirsty Delves shifting to goal shooter. And while Preston shot three-from-three, the Oldham attack lost its flow to lose the quarter 14-7.

Taking no chances in the final stages, Oldham moved Collier back to goal shooter and Turner returned to goal attack. Though a high number of unforced errors ensued, the last quarter was won 17-9 for an overall barrier of 15 points.

“We were much improved in attack this week and the shooting stats were excellent," said coach Debbie Hallas.

"More players stepped up and gave a good performance.

"Well done to Charlotte Preston on her debut. It is a big step up to Premier League, but she is definitely one for the future.”

Oldham’s final match of the season at Academy of Middlesex is on Sunday.


OCL League
DYNAMOS have claimed runners-up spot in the Oldham Community Leisure Under-18s Monday League, while Angels tasted success in the rally competition.