Maria pulls the strings for champions

Oldham 66, New Cambell 36

DEFENDING Premier One champions Oldham won all four quarters despite being without players absent after playing for England.

Facing a side with whom they drew away, Oldham looked to make a flying start but played without any flow in the first quarter, winning 12-9.

Coach Debbie Hallas introduced Maria McAndrew to wing attack and moved Rachel Henry to centre, while Sara Hale came on as goalkeeper.

The changes worked straight away, Oldham scoring three goals without reply and reaching half-time 36-22 ahead.

During the break, Hallas again shuffled her pack with Krista Enziano going on court and Alice Travis having a run-out at goal attack. The changes did not disrupt Oldham’s rhythm and they maintained their dominance to end the third quarter 49-29 ahead.

The strength in depth of the champions meant more changes could be made going into the last quarter.

Beth Cobden and Kathryn Turner returned to the court as Oldham saw out the game comfortably.


Oldham 61, Blackpool 33

AMY Clinton was in red-hot shooting form and Rachel Taylor closed down Blackpool’s attacking options as Oldham won this Regional League fixture in style.

Clinton scored 10 goals from as many attempts as Oldham finished the first half 15-8 ahead, and although the second quarter (12-9) was much closer, Oldham were always in command.

They closed out the game with 14-10 and 20-6 winning quarters, Taylor producing a player-of-the-match display by earning the most turnovers of any player.