Oxton win a close game of hockey against Preston

Oct 21 2009 by Our Correspondent, Birkenhead News

OXTON men’s first team travelled to Preston on Saturday for their latest northern premier league game.

This was a real game of two halves; Preston dominating the opening half and creating all the openings.

Preston went ahead midway through the first half when a shot from outside the Oxton circle was deflected into the goal by a defender, the goal was allowed to the astonishment of both teams. Shortly afterwards, with Oxton still debating the decision, Preston increased their lead. Preston were pressed back for most of the second half, conceding numerous short corners, but the Preston goal was charmed and Oxton were unable to capitalise.

Finally, an Oxton chance was put away when Jonathan Hodgkinson finished a short corner to give Oxton some hope of saving the game. Despite Oxton creating numerous further chances, Preston held on for the win.

Oxton will hope to bounce back this coming Saturday when they entertain Wakefield.

An excellent team performance for the ladies first team saw them defeat Bowdon.

A thrilling seven goal game saw Oxton pushed to the edge. Always a goal ahead Oxton took the lead via a close range strike from Liz Farren. Bowdon equalised shortly after from a well rehearsed short corner. Oxton kept the pressure on and took the lead through Beccy Davis. Jo Girven put Oxton 3-2 ahead after Bowdon had drawn level once again and Lisa Warnock secured a fourth goal to ensure a victory despite a late goal from Bowdon.

NICK FLYNN