Late goal blow for Oldham

HOCKEY:

IT was a familiar story as Oldham firsts conceded a last-gasp equaliser in a 1-1 draw against visitors Kirby Stephen in North Women’s Division Two.

An unremarkable first half ended goalless, with neither team creating any clear-cut chances.

Oldham took a deserved lead through Louise Howard’s strike 15 minutes after the restart and were seemingly on course for victory.

However, a period of sustained pressure from one of the division’s high-flyers eventually paid off, despite a valiant effort from the Oldham defence, which including player-of-the-day Lesley Beddow.

Kirby Stephen drew level in the last minute to leave Oldham with a single point for their efforts. They have also slipped another place to 10th in the table.

The club’s second team were unable take a much-needed three points in their fixture at Manchester Manto in the Greater Manchester Division One.

Victory would have lifted Oldham off the foot of the table, and above their opponents, but they had to settle for a 2-2 draw.

Christine Holman put Oldham ahead early in the second half, but two quick goals from the home side left them chasing the game.

They dug deep and were rewarded with an equaliser from Lorna McGuiness, which at least ensured they did not lose any more ground at the bottom.

Oldham thirds were in action in the Greater Manchester Division Three Cup but, despite some good performances, they were unable to qualify from the group stages.

The highlight of the day was a creditable 1-1 draw against eventual winners Heaton.

Oldham took the lead through a Karen Lord goal, but could not hang on to the points which could have seen them win the group.

Stand-out performers for Oldham were Rachael Cobain and Lauren Bates.