An unbeaten Alcuin side rockets off to a convincing start to the spring term beating a determined Derwent team 15-6.
After encouraging team talks from both captains, Megan Knight (Alcuin) and Rosie McCluskey (Derwent), the two sides were eager to take on their first matches of the 2013 season.
The game propelled into an exciting first few minutes, with goals at either ends and well timed interceptions from both sides. The Derwent defence remained resilient; making impressive interceptions, despite excellent shooting from Alcuin’s attacking players, Charlotte Winter and Grace Clarke. Both sides demonstrated fluidity in their passing and movement up court and with turnovers from both sides, the match was set to be an exciting one.
Derwent demonstrated some strong midcourt play with their wing attack, Ellie Burch creating an excellent battle with Alcuin’s captain, Megan Knight. However, the Derwent side were no match for the solid interplay between Alcuin’s midcourt Amy Ballard and Emma Houlden.
Alcuin pulled away in the second half showing their strong team spirit with lots of communication throughout the court. Derwent’s goal keeper, Lauren Riy proved a key player making interceptions to keep her side in contestation.
However, Alcuin’s defence, Milly Harvey and Helen Marrisson, dominated the defensive circle, forcing errors from the Derwent side and making it impossible for their attack to feed balls into the circle. The Derwent side fought hard to the end but Alcuin maintained their dominance from last season and sailed through to a convincing victory.
Alcuin were delighted with such a fantastic start and look forward to a successful season and their chance to play at Roses in the summer term.