On Wednesday 23 September, Team BC Elite Netball started their season with a very successful win against previous rivals, Exeter College.
The squad felt nervous as they stepped on court but soon found their feet and showed Exeter that they meant business! Team BC demonstrated good placement of passes and a high work rate, to force errors throughout the court. Amy Knight (GA) used her speed to beat her goal defence and drive into the circle, giving an easy option in the attacking end. They got off to a great start leading 12 – 7.
A team talk at quarter time allowed all players to discuss areas for improvement which made a big difference to their game play. Siobhan Lynam (GS) timed her dodge in the circle perfectly to beat her defender and receive the ball in a strong position, to then shoot accurately and consistently.
In centre court, due to pure determination to retrieve the ball, Chloe Trout (C) accidently collided with one of the opposition when going for an interception, or ‘taking one for the team’ in Chloe’s words. However, she soldiered on and finished the quarter with the same drive and effort that she had shown beforehand. Half time arrived with the score at 32 – 10.
The second half saw Exeter take the court, determined and motivated to bring themselves back in to contention. They began to defend tighter and managed to force errors in all areas of the court. Although, Team BC utilised squad players and the versatility within the team by bringing on ‘fresh legs’ to boost energy levels. Team BC won yet another quarter, which extended their lead to 46 – 16.
Going into the final quarter, defensive duo, Saskia Middleton (GK) and Rheanne Lee (GD) had a positive mind set and revealed their ability to communicate accurately in the circle, which allowed them to gain possession by forcing error in Exeter’s attack. The team did not give up and continued to score, adding to their impressive score. As a whole, all players demonstrated both individual skills as well as team work, which was brilliant to see in their first competitive match as a team. A great start to the season!
Final Score: 59 – 23
Player’s Player of the Match: Rheanne Lee
Coaches’ Player of the Match: Siobhan Lynam
