Enziano keeps her cool for profligate Oldham

OLDHAM’S Sarah Carter delivers a pass in the Premier League game against Leeds.

NETBALL:

OLDHAM squandered a big lead as they drew 58-58 against Leeds Athletic in the Premier League clash at Hathershaw Sports Centre.

With Leeds fielding a near Superleague-strength side, it was always going to be a tough encounter for the hosts.

The first quarter was a little scrappy with lots of turnover ball for both teams.

Oldham had the edge, though, as excellent shooting from Krista Enziano helped build an impressive 17-12 lead.

Superb turnovers from Laura Malcolm and Dani Bloomfield kept Oldham in the ascendancy and they went in at half-time with a 35-22 advantage.

Leeds made changes to their team at the midway point and they had an immediate impact.

The West Yorkshire outfit moved Natalie Panagarry from centre to wing attack, where she supplied her team-mates with ease.

The Oldham defence were left wanting and could not rediscover their form of the previous week.

They were unable to adapt to Leeds’ rejuvenated attack and crumbled under the persistent pressure.

The visitors clawed their way back and took the lead with a minute to go.

In a frantic finish, Oldham managed to get the ball into the shooting circle, where defender Lauren Potter gave away a silly penalty.

Enziano stepped up, kept her cool and earned a share of the spoils.

Oldham coach Debbie Hallas said: “I am absolutely gutted that we managed to throw away a 14-goal lead.

“In the second half it felt like we had seven individuals on the court.

“We totally lost our focus and some players chose to do their own thing rather than listening to instructions.

“We have a lot to reflect on in training and a lot of hard work to do.

“The team owe it to Krista. She held her nerve at the end and was a consistent performer throughout the game.”