Oldham to the power of three

Photo: Chris Sunderland

EYES ON THE BALL . . . Oldham’s Maria McAndrew launches a pass.

NETBALL: A TERRIFIC display in the third quarter set Oldham on the way to a 69-43 victory over Oaksway in the National League.

The hosts took the game out of their opponents reach with some fine attacking play to stretch their lead to 23 points.

There was no way back for Oaksway and, although Oldham eased off in the last quarter, they were always in control.

The game was in jeopardy after the visitors from Hartlepool got stuck in an accident on the way to Hathershaw Sports Centre.

The match was delayed by 15 minutes, and when it did get under way, Oldham recovered from a handful of wasted chances to build up a lead of six goals (15-9).

Oaksway changed things round in an attempt to force their way back into contention, but they were thwarted by some fantastic interceptions from goal defence Emma Dovey.

Goalkeeper Kerry Almond also did a great job against Oaksway’s 6ft 3in shooter Emma Lower, giving her rival a torrid time.

Wing defence Rachael Taylor did a fine job in marking wing her attack and stifled the feed into the circle.

In the last couple of minutes the Oaksway goal defence was injured, and Oldham introduced goal shooter Krista Enziano and moved Karen Greig to goal attack, with Kathryn Turner heading for the bench.

The points continued to flow, with Oldham leading 35-23 at the break.

Oldham kept the same formation for the third quarter while Oaksway again swapped things round.

Oldham were too good in the third quarter.

Wing attack Maria McAndrew was in fine form, despite the physical presence of the wing defence and set up some great attacking moves. Oldham won the quarter by a clear nine goals for a 54-31 lead.

For the last quarter, Oldham brought on Jodie Gibson at wing defence and gave Rachael Taylor a well-earned rest.

Oaksway switched their shooting formation for a more mobile combination. It did work a little better, but Oldham took their foot off the gas too, although they still took the quarter 15-12.

Oldham coach Mike Greenwood said: “We didn’t have the greatest preparation for the game and we still haven’t found our best form, although it was great to pull out a result against our northern rivals.”

The Premier League resumes on Sunday, January 9, with Oldham away to Linden.