A nail-biting clash saw York battle to a 28-24 win in the tent on Wednesday. A valiant effort from each and every netballer resulted in an exciting win against an impressive Northumbria team.
Northumbria began the game as dominators, scoring several goals in quick succession. It was clear from the offset that this would be a tough game for York, but shouts from captain Tess Webb spurred the team on and their play visibly stepped up a level.
Intelligent play from wing defence Lucy Daymond led to numerous interceptions which were converted at the York attacking end. However, a resolute Northumbria defence made it hard for the ball to be worked around the attacking D, leading to several turnarounds by the opposition. The first quarter ended with York leading by just two goals, 10-8.
The second quarter saw mistakes by York cost them the lead, as Northumbria powered ahead. Webb and goal keeper Carrie Green defended strongly but quick play from the Northumbria shooters and missed conversion opportunities in the York attacking D gave the opposition the advantage. The heads of the home team visibly dropped as they ended the second quarter losing 12-14.
An impassioned team talk from captain Tess Webb during half time served to increase York’s hunger for a win. They began the third quarter with a fresh sense of determination and a fresh pair of legs in the form of Eliza Ackland as goal shooter.
An immediate interception from the ever-consistent Shadyn Nikzad sparked an impressive York comeback. Solid defensive play from Webb and Green caused frustration for the Northumbria attack, while York’s attacking play at last seemed to be flowing.
Short, sharp passes broke down the tough Northumbria defence and accurate feeding into the D by wing attack Ellie McAlpine and centre Nikzad prompted a strong of goals by Moll and Ackland. The superiority of the home team’s fitness was clear as York propelled themselves into the lead, ending the third quarter 22-18.
Maintaining this lead was essential as the fourth quarter began and tensions were running high as both teams were fired up for the deciding fifteen minutes. Northumbria began with an attack, playing the ball fluidly up the court and gaining on York’s lead.
However, York’s determination was clear, and a fighting performance from every section of the court meant that they stormed ahead, leaving the Northumbria team trailing in their wake. Both sides battled hard, but York triumphantly took the win, ending the game 28-24.
Captain Webb was visibly delighted with the result: “It is an excellent achievement to beat the team who has performed the strongest in the league this season. This was due to York fighting throughout the match. We look forward to winning our final games.”
In the past two weeks, the York 2nds have beaten the top two teams in their league. These results show great promise for the upcoming Varsity tournament at the weekend, and Roses in summer term.
Vision MOTM: Shadyn Nikzad