Tour success for netball girls

OLDHAM Netball Club rounded off their successful tour of Australia with a 41-14 victory over Palm Beach in which Charlotte Hanna and Jess Retford were outstanding.

The local girls had earlier lost 32-28 to John Paul College, having only moved to Springwood 24 hours earlier to be billeted with the families of the college netball team.

Oldham bounced back with a 26-20 win over St Peter’s College, centre-court pair Maria McAndrew and Becky Smith helping to overturn a 16-4 half-time deficit.

And they followed up with a 38-33 win over Southport, Becky Gregory turning in a fine effort.

Head coach Mike Greenwood was delighted with the tour and said: “The girls have gained some great experience against some quality Aussie opposition.

“And a coaching session from former World Player of the Year Vicky Wilson - current coach of the Queensland Firebirds - topped off a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all the players and support staff.”