Firsts pegged back at home

OLDHAM women firsts remain top of North Hockey Division Two South-West despite being held to a 2-2 draw by Stockport Bramhall at Newman College.

Two goals from Louise Howard had seemingly put the hosts on course for a comfortable win against a defensive outfit.

But hopes of victory were dashed as Stockport first reduced the deficit and then grabbed an equaliser late on in the second half.

Oldham are in action on Saturday, with a tough away trip to Alderley Edge.

Meanwhile, a scrappy goal was the difference in an otherwise evenly-matched clash between Prescot firsts and Oldham’s second string.

Buoyed by their win over Didsbury Northern, the town team were unlucky to leave Merseyside empty-handed.

They have a break this weekend before hosting Didsbury thirds on November 24.

Oldham’s third team put seven goals past Urmston thirds in a friendly game.

It was perfect preparation for Saturday’s Greater Manchester Women’s Hockey Association All Divisions Cup tie against the University of Manchester thirds as an Emily Milnes hat-trick and braces from Lauren Bates and Fran Barlow maintained the side’s unbeaten record.

Oldham’s veterans team were unlucky to be knocked out of the Investec Over-35s Cup by Pendle Forest at Newman College.

Great defending by the home side thwarted their opponents, who needed penalty flicks to progress.

The veterans will now play in the consolation trophy competition.