Back with a bang!

OLDHAM Ladies Hockey Club firsts started the New Year in style by defeating Urmston 2-1 in a close-fought contest at Newman College.

After dominating the opening period, player of the match Jordanna Rawlinson put the hosts in front when converting Chidi Onuoha’s pinpoint cross.

Urmston were better after the break and drew level in the North Hockey Women’s League Division Two South-West clash with a well-worked goal.

Both teams went all out for the winner in a terrific second half. Rawlinson and Yvonne Jackson provided a constant threat down the left flank, but it was a move on the opposite side that led to Oldham’s second goal.

Rebecca Blair and Fran Barlow combined to play-in Rachael Johnson, and she sealed victory with five minutes to go.

It was a good effort by Oldham, who were without Louise Howard (illness) and Daisy May Ward. They both are aiming to return for this weekend’s trip to Wrexham.