Last-eight defeat for Oldham side

HOCKEY: OLDHAM women’s hockey team bowed out of the All England Knockout Vase, beaten 4-1 by Vikings (Isle of Man) in the quarter-finals.

Louise Howard scored an equaliser for Oldham and Karen Rowley went close several times.

But Vikings got on top with three unanswered goals in the second half.

Oldham’s third team - the only side to have beaten Division 3 leaders Newton - picked up another useful point against the table-toppers by holding them to a 1-1 draw.

Nina King was in excellent form and a goal from Emma Burns secured a point which takes Oldham out of the relegation spots.

The second team, also battling to avoid the drop, turned in a fine display at Glossop.

There was a stand-out performance from winger Jordanna Boon and goals from Amanda Smith (2), Christine Holman and Lisa Staniland to secure a 4-1 win.

However, fielding a weakened side next day, the seconds slipped to a 1-0 defeat at home to Didsbury 3rd.

Goalkeeper Sarah Simpson was kept busy and denied Didsbury until deep into the second half. Nerys Evans turned in an eye-catching performance in central midfield.