Hallas salutes latest crucial Premier win

IN GREAT FORM . . . Oldham's Taylor Cullen

OLDHAM travelled south to play New Cambell in Dagenham, returning with a hard-fought 60 points to 52 victory in their latest National Premier League Division One clash.

With three regular players away at England under-21 camp, Oldham knew they would have to be focused to get a result from this tough fixture.

An early hand injury to Krista Enziano caused some disruption, but she soon returned to court and Oldham found their rhythm.

The defensive duo of Kerry Almond and Emma Dovey were rock solid and were supported well by player-of-the-match Taylor Cullen.

Oldham won the opening quarter 18-11.

The second quarter continued in the same vein, with Oldham dominating in all areas of the court. Patient play and excellent shooting from both Enziano and Kathryn Turner saw the visitors with a half time lead of 36-20.

Cambell were shell-shocked and came out strong in the third quarter, stemming Oldham's flow.

During a brief time out for Turner, Abby Tyrrell entered the court at wing defence and coach Debbie Hallas reshuffled the centre court.

CHANGES

The changes had an impact and Oldham slipped through the gears, going on a seven-goal run without reply, to end the quarter leading 50-33.

Cambell won the final quarter 19-10 against a tiring Oldham, but it was too little too late.

Overall the visitors proved just too much for the home team and came away happy with another precious five points, keeping them top of the league table.

Coach Hallas said: "This was a coach's dream for most of it, they did exactly what I asked for in the team talk.

"We dictated the game for three quarters, we tired toward the end but the game was gone.

"The defence of Almond and Dovey was almost impenetrable, Taylor continued her fantastic form and did really well when moved up to the less familiar centre position.

McAndrew played an experienced role in her middle supporting Hall who had a great full debut for our Premier League squad.

"In the shooting circle Turner and Enziano were unstoppable, their shooting stats were a credit to them and their understanding left the Cambell defenders looking shell-shocked throughout the game."

Starting seven: GS Enziano, GA Turner, WA Hall, C McAndrew, WD Cullen, GD Dovey, GK Almond. Subs: S Armstrong, L Stevenson, A Tyrrell.