Oldham netball club crowned national champions - again!
Oldham Netball Club reclaimed the National Premier League title by defeating Academy with a final score of 59-38, marking their 12th title in 14 seasons. The team showcased strong performances from key players like Kerry Almond, Alice McGeachy, and Jade Clarke MBE, along with strategic coaching from Debbie Hallas.
Oldham Netball Club dethroned reigning champions Academy 59-38 to reclaim the National Premier League title and lift their 12th championship in 14 seasons.
The red-and-blues roared out of the blocks at Oldham Leisure Centre, storming to an 18-5 first-quarter lead as veteran keeper Kerry Almond and goal defence Alice McGeachy smothered Academy’s shooters.
Coach Debbie Hallas rotated her squad early, handing England U-19 shooter Emily Pawlett her first senior minutes after injury and resting captain Emily Whitehead. By half-time the lead had ballooned to 35-14, with Hannah Diamond and Danika Jessup combining for 31 goals before the break.
Whitehead returned at wing attack for the third quarter alongside the season debut of Jade Clarke MBE - England’s most-capped international - at wing defence after a foot lay-off. A lapse in tempo let Academy pinch the quarter 13-8, but Hallas shuffled Clarke to centre and recalled Grace James and Ebbie Davenport to close out the 21-point victory.
Hallas said: “It’s been a long but rewarding season and I’m delighted to bring the trophy back to Oldham. Our success is testament to the great work in our junior club where we literally have a conveyor belt of talent coming through, where in seniors we can develop that young talent alongside experienced senior players.”
Oldham will receive the trophy in a showcase clash against local rivals Bury at Oldham Leisure Centre on Sunday 23 March.
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