Team BC Netball faced PETROC College in the third round of the AoC Sport Netball Cup. After losing to PETROC by one in a close league encounter, Team BC were determined this time around to secure a victory and give the opposition a tough game.

The team were physically and mentally strong from the start, and with great movement from Aerin Phillips (GS) finished the first quarter 15 – 9 in the lead.

The second quarter required the away side to go out just as hard as they did in the first. Well timed interceptions from defensive players Rheanne Lee (GD) and Saskia Middleton (GK), and the delaying of the opposition by Laura Gibson (WD) kept Team BC in the lead, giving them chance to make the most of every opportunity to score. Consistent shooting from Sammy Kemmish (GA) increased the score line at half time to 27 – 17 and kept PETROC chasing.

Going into the second half, PETROC upped their game and put pressure on Team BC in both attack and defence. Team BC tried their best to keep composure, with Alisha Gardener (C) controlling the speed of the game throughout the court. Amy Knight (WA) created some great movement as well as securing many interceptions for the team, however PETROC’s pressure meant they were able to close the gap to 36 – 28 going into the last quarter.

PETROC kept fighting well into the last quarter of the game, however Team BC dug deep with Phillips continuing to secure some critical goals for the Team BC side and Cerys Ethridge (WA) keeping control of the game, providing a strong link between defence and attack. More outstanding defensive pressure from Lee and Middleton helped to keep PETROC at bay resulting in a great team victory for Team BC, winning 49 – 38.

Players’ player of the Match: Alisha Gardener
Coaches’ Player of the Match: Saskia Middleton and Laura Gibson