Tensions were running high before the game, as Hull Seconds had beaten York twice this year in the league. However, York were hungry for revenge, and from the start they dominated. A special mention must be given to Amy Moye, who after her ‘Man of the Match’ performance and stepping in for the Firsts due to an injury, won York’s ‘Player of the Tournament’.
York’s fighting spirit was clear for all to see from the first whistle and there was no doubt that they were to dictate the game. York passed the ball fluidly throughout the court, with Shadyn Nikzad feeding the energetic shooters with consistent passes. Hull struggled to settle into the game due to the dominance in defence, especially with rebounds off the post and despite the Goal Attack being extremely tall; Tess Webb put her under extreme pressure. York were up 13-2 after the first quarter and a win was certainly on the cards.
York did not become complacent and they continued this excellent play throughout the second quarter. Amy Moye and Amy Moll proved themselves to be an unbeatable duo, and their awareness of each other in the circle ensured that York kept the lead. Furthermore, despite Moye playing an attacking role, she intercepted three balls in the space of five minutes, which was utilized by York.
In the third quarter, York pulled away and vocal support from Tess Webb encouraged her team to continue playing at such a high standard. Well into the third quarter, York were 33-9 up and Hull looked deflated. Shadyn Nikzad confirmed her role as the playmaker of the Seconds and her overarching presence in both the attacking and defensive thirds gave much needed support to her team.
The last quarter consisted of some of the best play by the Seconds all year. In the face of a physical Hull team, York did not let their game be affected and the fluidity in the play was outstanding. York continued to put balls in the net with considerable ease, and by the end of the match it was 52-16 to York.
This was a much deserved win for a Seconds’ team who are fighting for promotion in the league. The captaincy of Tess Webb has propelled this team to new heights and her sound presence both on and off court has clearly paid off. Webb was overjoyed with her team’s performance and she noted their ‘superior fitness and mentality’. The Seconds aim to win the rest of their matches and hopefully this performance will be mirrored at Roses next term