Firsts lack attacking spark

HOCKEY: OLDHAM Ladies Hockey Club, lacking creativity in the final third of the field, were beaten 2-0 by Timperley in North Hockey Women’s League Division Two South-West.

Though weather conditions at Newman College were awful, with driving rain, a full-strength local side was hoping for a home win after two away defeats.

After an even start, Timperley took the lead. Short of confidence and composure on the ball, Oldham fell further behind when the visitors struck from a short corner.

One positive was the performance of defender and player of the match Amy Broadbent, who made some impressive tackles.

The hosts had a chance to reduce the deficit, but Karen Rowley miscued her shot in the ‘D’.

Louise Howard felt she was brought down by the Timperley ’keeper after being released by Rachael Johnson, but the keeper was adjudged to have taken the ball first.

Oldham were much-improved in the second half, but were only to carve out a couple of half chances.