Oldham fire warning shot

KATHRYN Turner made an early interception as Oldham fought back in the opening period.

DESPITE making their usual slow start, Oldham Netball Club registered a 59-34 National Premier League win at Hucclecote.

The Cheltenham-based side forged an early 6-4 lead before reigning champions Oldham showed glimpses of what they are capable of in their quest to retain the title.

Two intercepts in a row from wing defence Gabby Marshall and goal attack Kathryn Turner levelled things up — and from that point it was one-way traffic.

The defence of Sara Hale and Kerry Almond forced errors from the hosts and they were backed by Marshall and centre Rachel Henry.

Leading 15-8 at the first break, Oldham coach Debbie Hallas opted to replace Marshall with Rachael Taylor and the change didn’t hinder the visitors in the slightest - they went 10 goals ahead within a few minutes of the restart.

Hucclecote were unable to live with the pace of Oldham, who extended their advantage to 32-16 at half-time.

The second half produced more of the same, as Hallas brought on the experienced Karen Greig at goal shooter. Greig helped to extend the lead, sinking some of her famous long bombs.

Henry, having moved forward to wing attack, created lots of space and fed Turner and Greig with ease.

Oldham had built up a decisive 48-24 lead after three quarters.

Maria McAndrew was then reintroduced and some quick passing into Greig and Turner saw their side clinch a 25-goal winning margin.

Hallas said: “After our now notorious slow start we played some good netball for the first match of the new year.



OLDHAM Netball Club hit the ground running in 2014 with a 44-35 victory over Trafford in the North-West Premier League.

Showing great spirit and determination, they won three of the four quarters against opponents who had good height at both ends.

The defensive unit was superb, making it difficult for their opponents’ attack to move in the circle.

Tired legs aside, Oldham were determined to see the game through and they did not let their performance levels drop.