Team BC Netball faced Exeter College’s first team in the fourth round of the AoC Sport Netball Cup. The team went into the game with a good confidence boost as a few players returned from injuries, the squad were rearing to go and were keen to give Exeter, who will be representing the South West at April’s AoC Sport National Championships, a run for their money!

The first quarter saw a great team effort from Team BC, who tried their best to apply defensive pressure against the well drilled Exeter side. Well timed interceptions from defensive pairing Rheanne Lee (GD) and Saskia Middleton (GK), and the delaying of the opposition by Alisha Gardener (WD) kept Team BC fighting, unfortunately wasn’t enough to stop the Exeter attack from building an early lead.

Great attacking play by shooters Aerin Phillips (GS) and Sammy Kemmish (GA) helped to keep Team BC’s spirits up, but the team went into the second quarter down, 16 – 4.

Going into the second quarter, changes to Team BC offered alternative options when bringing the ball down the court. Amy Knight (WA) and Chloe Trout (C) created some great movement while Sammy Kemmish (GA) held her space well in the circle to provide a safe option for her team and shot well to try and keep Team BC in the game. However, the Exeter still proving to be just too strong, and the score at half time was 29 – 11.

Team BC kept fighting well into the last quarter of the game. Hannah Toal (GS) continued to secure some critical goals for the Team BC side and Chloe Trout (C) and Laura Gibson (WD) kept control of the game, providing a strong link between defence and attack. Despite their valiant effort and great team moral, Team BC were unable to chase down an increasing lead by Exeter, and the game finished 69 – 19.

Players’ player of the Match: Hannah Toal 
Coaches’ Player of the Match: Saskia Middleton