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Photos: Jack Western
Derwent proved themselves as a strong side in the netball league as they secured victory over Goodricke.
Both teams were suffering from a lack of key players and so had to field weakened teams, with some players out of position. However, neither team let this affect their play.
The opening few minutes saw Goodricke dominate the court, with the ball sitting comfortably in their attacking third. Centre Emily Drake wasted no time in pushing the ball into the Goodricke circle, moving swiftly around the court allowing shooter Emily Dobson to put her team in the lead.
Derwent were quick to equal the scoreline and for a while it seemed the match could go either way with both sides showing fighting spirit and the ball moving rapidly up and down both ends of the court. However, it was Derwent who became the more powerful team, making impressive interceptions and putting their side back in contention.
With an 8-3 lead behind them, Derwent began the second half in much the same way that the first half ended. Their ability to drive the ball effortlessly down the court, with well-timed passes between Wing Attack Ellie Burch and Centre Jessica Aston, allowed Derwent to soon extend the scoreline.
Goodricke remained resilient throughout, and at times demonstrated excellent teamwork and movement around the court. However, it was Derwent who proved their strength and determination, and the intense pressure they put on the Goodricke side made them worthy winners with an 18-7 victory.
Derwent Captain Rosie McCluskey praised her team’s efforts saying: “another great result for the girls today against a worthy opposition, showing continued strength and improvement. I’m very proud of how far the team has come and we’ll look forward to our last few games of the season.”
Goodricke: GS Emily Dobson, GA Sarah Lane (C), WA Clemmie Edgeworth, C Emily Drake, WD Megan Gonsalves, GD Chloe Ball, GK Laurel Hill/Tasha Burr
Derwent: GS Amy Goodfellow, GA Meg Opie, WA Ellie Burch, C Jessica Aston, WD Sally Caldicotte, GD Lily Horton, GK Lauren Kiy