Back on track

Photo: Paul Sterritt

Oldham's Helen Dovey in action.

NETBALL: AFTER suffering a first loss for two years in the National Premier League, Oldham Netball Club returned to winning ways with an emphatic 79-36 victory over Southampton-based Blades at Hathershaw College.

The hosts are renowned for being slow starters and it wasn’t until the fifth-minute mark that they edged ahead.

But once Oldham were in front, they surged clear with quick, free-flowing play.

The Blades’ attack was blunted by a resolute defence, while turnovers saw the ball moved swiftly to shooters Kathryn Turner and Helen Housby.

Leading 19-12 at the first break, Oldham then went on to score nine unanswered points. By half-time the advantage had been extended to 37-20.

Coach Debbie Hallas made some changes at the break, with Krista Enziano, Beth Cobden and Jodie Gibson introduced. The latter was back in the red and blue kit after two years at Loughborough University.

The third quarter saw Oldham keep the accelerator hard to the floor as they punished any Blades errors.

Turnovers were taking place all over the court, and at the end of the third quarter Oldham had scored an impressive 21 goals lead to 58-26.

Although victory was assured, there was still no let-up from Oldham, with another 21 goals added to their tally.

Defenders Gibson and Webster were dominant as they made several terrific interceptions to stop Blades in their tracks.