By Stephen Holcroft
A table-topping decider went Leeds Carnegie’s way in the netball on Wednesday, as their expertise withstood the endurance of York’s 2nds in a 39-27 victory for the visitors. York matched their opponents for long spells until the final quarter, when Leeds’ striking prowess proved decisive. The result stretches Leeds Carnegie’s winning streak to five but more significantly, increases their league advantage to five points over their rivals.
Although commitment from both sides was faultless on the afternoon, York should be granted additional credit for clawing a significant first-half deficit back to 22-22 in the 3rd quarter. After an opening quarter which saw Leeds Carnegie move 12-8 ahead, it seemed that York, and goalkeeper Josephine Brayshaw, were to be overrun. Yet the team worked tirelessly, particularly Shadyn Nikzad, to prevent Leeds’ central-attacking threat. Fortunes gradually began to change, and as Leeds Carnegie attempted to consolidate their position, York struck back courtesy of fine attacking work from India Perry and Rosie Mughal.
The gap was tightened to 20-18 at the half-way stage, and possible comeback for the hosts couldn’t be ruled out. Spurred on by their enthusiastic home support, York powered on. Scores were suddenly level at 22-22, and Leeds were under pressure away from home to cement their flawless start to the season. At the end of the third quarter, however, the visitors led 27-25.
Hope remained for York in the final fifteen, but a combination of level-headedness and clinical shooting proved the visitors’ gain, with Leeds finishing 39-27 victors. Next up for the Netball 2nds, who remain in second place, is a league trip away to the University of Hull on Wednesday January 26th.