Oldham’s show of strength

Photo: PICTURES by CHRIS SUNDERLAND

OVER TO YOU . . . Dani Bloomfield attempts to pick out an Oldham team-mate in the Premier League clash against New Cambell.

NETBALL:

OLDHAM displayed great resilience in the last quarter to repel a comeback from Essex side New Cambell in this Premier League fixture at Hathershaw College of Technology and Sport.

The hosts dug deep to record a 67-61 victory against a team which featured ex-Northern Thunder shooter Lynsey Armitage, who gave them a height advantage in the circle.

Cambell struck early, but Oldham were in no mood to let their opponents build up a significant lead.

Some great feeds from attackers Dani Bloomfield, Rachel Henry and Kathryn Turner allowed tall shooter Krista Enziano to make her mark as the home side won the first quarter 18-15.
The high scoring continued in the second, with the teams trading goal-for-goal.

Goal Keeper Kerry Almond came up with two interceptions in a row, which helped Oldham to claim the quarter 19-17 for an overall lead of five.

Alexa Collier (goal attack) came on for Turner in the third quarter.

But inconsistency, which had been evident in previous matches this season, became apparent again as Cambell fought back. Centre Bloomfield, nursing an injury, was replaced by Maria McAndrew. Oldham’s form dipped with several balls thrown away and Cambell took the quarter 16-14.

There was everything to play for in the final quarter, with Oldham leading by only three goals.

Bloomfield was back at wing defence to give Oldham extra height to stop the high balls directed at Armitage, while Turner returned to goal attack.

McAndrew continued to impress at centre as Oldham showed mental strength when it mattered most.

They put their foot on the gas and increased their lead to six goals — an advantage which they maintained to the end.

Oldham coach Debbie Hallas said: “It was another tough game, but we showed good strength when it mattered.

“The two tall shooters were prominent, but I think we beat them with our speed and fitness through the court.

“It was a better performance from our feeders, particularly Rachel Henry, who is starting to find some form following her return from injury.”