Oldham make nationals

NETBALL: A SEQUENCE of seven straight victories helped Oldham under-16s progress to the national netball finals in Sheffield as North-West champions.

Taking an unblemished record into their final regional game against Tameside at Leigh Sports Village, the Oldham girls were forced to dig deep to claim the win.

A poor start contributed to Tameside establishing a 24-10 lead at the halfway stage, with unforced errors against a solid defence proving a problem.

In the third quarter, though, Oldham turned up the heat with some great interceptions from goal keeper Lynda Onuoha.

Level entering the final section, the team dug deep and showed mental strength to finish as 45-42 winners.

"Although we were not at our technical best, the will to win and the attitude of both the players who made the court and the team bench was excellent," said team manager Mike Greenwood.

"I’m very proud of our girls. We have a lot of hard work to do before the finals.”

The national finals are held on the weekend of May 7 and 8.




TWO netball courses for youngsters take place in Failsworth next week.



A young organiser course is being held at Failsworth Sports College on Brierley Avenue, on Monday, April 18 between 9.30am and 4pm. For Year Nine children upwards, a good knowledge of netball is an advantage and the cost is £20.

A young umpire course takes place at the same venue a day later, at the same venue between the same times. The cost is £20, with the course designed for Year Seven upwards. A good knowledge of the sport is again an advantage.

Both courses are All England Netball accredited and with places limited, early booking is advised.

Contact Debbie Chapman on 07725 938889.



Ball Hall coaching chance



A THUNDER camp is being held on Thursday, April 21 (9.30am to 3.30pm) at Oldham Ball Hall.



A chance to be work with Thunder coaches and players, the cost is £20 for the day, including a ticket for Thunder versus Glasgow Wildcats on Sunday, May 22.

For details, log on to www.thundernetball.com