We are the champions - Oldham do it again

Debbie Hallas

OLDHAM Netball Club have done it again.

For the fifth time in six years they have been crowned the National Premier League champions.

Top honours were in the bag prior to their away clash against Essex-based Turnford as nearest rivals New Cambell had conceded their latest fixture - but they celebrated with a convincing 71-51 success.

Coach Debbie Hallas said: "After last year's disappointment at finishing runners-up, everyone was determined to regain the title. It shows the depth of the squad and its character that even when players were missing others stepped up to the plate.

"Krista Enziano and Marie McAndrew were the senior players in the team against Turnford, and they are only 24.

"Chloe Shepherd made her Premier League debut and did well, while Suzie Armstrong was strong in defence. She has benefited from playing alongside Kerry Almond and Emma Dovey."

Due to Manchester Thunde commitments, Oldham were missing the experienced trio of Kerry Almond, Emma Dovey and Kathryn Turner.

The opening quarter was scrappy as both teams were unable to gain momentum, but several timely interceptions from Abby Tyrell and strong shooting from the pairing of Enziano and Amy Clinton saw the visitors take a slender 16-14 lead.

A fast start to the second quarter put Oldham on the front foot as Turnford rang the changes.

Shepherd, at goal attack, fitted in seamlessly as Oldham stretched their advantage to 33-26 at half-time.

Oldham, despite having only one replacement, were in full flow.

The defensive pairing of Armstrong and Abby Tyrell were in total control.

The ball was sailed through court, via Amy Nield, who had moved to wing defence in the second half of the match, while the lightning pace of Maria McAndrew and Amelia Hall proved unstoppable. Shooting pair of player-of-the-match Clinton and Shepherd were excellent under the netas the new champions had made it 15 wins out of 15 in the league.

Starting seven: GS Enziano, GA Clinton, WA Neild, C Hall, WD McAndrew, GD Tyrell, GK Armstrong.

• Check out more netball pictures on our picture sales page.