Young team refuses to yield

NETBALL:

LEADERS Oldham Netball Club enjoyed a 56-43 victory at North-East outfit Oaksway in Premier League One.

Oldham prevailed despite the absence of vice-captain Rachael Taylor and England under-21 star Beth Cobden — and in the face of a highly partisan Geordie crowd. The return of England captain Jade Clarke was also a key boost to the team.

Clarke led the way with three excellent interceptions in the first quarter, giving Oldham 12-11.

Oldham started to dominate and took the second quarter 15-7.

Clarke was rested at half-time: Maria McAndrew joined at centre, while Krista Enziano went on as goal shooter and Alice Travis moved to goal attack. Though the changes seemed to hit the visitors’ flow slightly, they still took the quarter 13-11.

For the final push Clarke returned to centre, with McAndrew shifting to wing attack and Webster replacing Carter at goal keeper, while Kathryn Turner was back at goal attack.

Oaksway’s never-say-die attitude kept them in the mix and they came within touching distance of the lead, but Oldham stood firm.

Oldham coach Debbie Hallas said: “It was a good performance, and we showed a lot of character under pressure.

Oldham will sit at the top of the table over the Christmas break, with a game in hand on nearest challengers Leeds Athletic. The next game is at New Cambell, Essex (Jan 13).