Oldham fall at the final hurdle

Oldham Ladies Hockey Club first team: (back row, left) Rebecca Johnson, Oona Cassidy, Amanda Smith, Becky Blair, Rachael Johnson, Lesley Beddow, Karen Rowley, Sally Richmond; (front row, left) Nerys Evan, Laura Rice, Sarah Simpson, Yvonne Jackson, Louise Howard.

HOCKEY: TREBLE dreams were shattered for the Oldham Ladies Hockey Club’s first team, as Manchester University won the All Divisions Cup final 1-0 at the Armitage Centre.

It meant that after going all season unbeaten, the champions couldn't quite find the reserves to see off a young, fast outfit — but Oldham at least have the consolation of knowing they have been promoted to the North Division next term.

The University team piled on the pressure from the start and despite strong performances from defenders Nerys Evans and Lesley Beddow, it was sheer luck the score was still 0-0 at the break.

The only strike of the game, which was a fine effort, arrived shortly after the resumption of play. And though the champions got into their stride towards the end, an equalising goal proved elusive.

Oldham's second team enjoyed better fortunes, winning 2-1 at Glossop in a vital Greater Manchester League Division One clash.

With Oldham entering the game on eight points to Glossop's seven, a victory or a draw was enough to keep the visitors up — and relegate their opponents.

Glossop broke the stalemate, converting a penalty corner before Oldham suffered the blow of losing captain Jordanna Boon to a bloody facial injury.

Bandages in place, player-of-the-day Boon heroically returned to the field in the second half and spurred her side on.

After good midfield work, striker Christine Holman found space to strike home an equaliser.

Five minutes from full-time, Laura Rice pushed the winner past the Glossop goalkeeper to seal the 2-1 victory and save her side's collective skin.