Premier title in Oldham’s sights

SARAH CARTER (left) — turnovers helped to galvanise Oldham against The Downs.

NETBALL:

OLDHAM overcame a tardy start to sweep aside hosts The Downs 56-35 and close in on the Netball Premier League title.

The Guildford-based outfit surprised the table-toppers in the opening quarter with their physical approach and quickly built up an 8-1 lead.

But several turnovers from Emma Dovey and Sarah Carter jolted the team into life, and centre Laura Malcolm used her speed to get the ball flowing down the court. Oldham moved through the gears and had a slim 17-14 lead at the first break.

The second quarter was scrappy as The Downs did everything they could to stop Oldham. This resulted in a high penalty count. It was almost like a game of tennis, possession going backwards and forwards-— but Oldham’s defence held firm, limiting the Surrey side to only six goals in the quarter but scoring 11 themselves.

Oldham coach Debbie Hallas has been lucky enough to have a strong bench all season, with every player fighting to hit the court. Changes at half-time appeared to lift Oldham, with turnovers being won and converted all over the court.

Bright prospect Alice Travis - 15 - came on as goal shooter and boasted 100-per-cent stats for the quarter (seven goals from seven attempts).

Leading 44-27 going into the final quarter, Oldham took the opportunity to make yet more changes in attack and defence. Malcolm, Rachel Henry and Kathryn Turner earned a rest, with Krista Enziano, Rachael Taylor and Sarah Carter returning to the fray.

Some of Oldham’s play in this quarter was disjointed, but the victory was already in the bag.

Hallas said: “It was great to see each player hit the court for at least a half and do their job. They gave me another scare at the start, and this is certainly something that needs working on.”

Oldham’s penultimate match is away to New Cambell, of Essex, this weekend, and they only require two points to win the title.