Oldham Netball Club gain valuable international experience against NI Warriors

Oldham Netball Club travelled to Belfast over the weekend to face the Northern Ireland Warriors in a two-match preseason series at Ulster University.

The fixtures provided an excellent opportunity for Oldham's players to test themselves against international opposition as part of their preparations for the upcoming season.  

For the Warriors, the matches formed an important part of their build-up to the Netball World Cup Qualifiers, which begins on September 25. 

The tournament will see Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland competing for two qualification places at the Netball World Cup. 

The Warriors claimed victory in both matches, although Oldham significantly reduced the margin in the second game, demonstrating clear progress and development across the weekend. 

Oldham Netball Club Senior Head Coach, Debbie Hallas, said: "It was an amazing opportunity for our players to travel and play against international opposition. For some, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

"For our younger players, it helped expose them to a higher level of competition and will stand them in good stead ahead of what promises to be a busy season. 

"It was also a fantastic team-building opportunity. On Sunday, the team took part in a treasure hunt around Belfast, photographing themselves at some of the city's most famous landmarks. 

"We would like to thank the Warriors for the experience and wish them every success in the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers." 

Northern Ireland Warriors Head Coach Sheonah Forbes added: "I'd like to thank Oldham for travelling to play us. It can be difficult to secure quality opposition in preparation for events like these, so the opportunity was extremely beneficial for our squad. 

"We're focused, firing and ready for the qualifiers. We hope to see plenty of support there." 

For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.netballscotland.com/events/nwcq-europe/