Sussex Uni Netball 24Worthing College 33

After weeks of no games, the Netball Academy 1^st Team took up the offer of a “friendly” against Sussex Uni 1^st and 2^nd Teams. A depleted squad of 8 players made the

snowy journey to Brighton to thankfully play indoors !

 

With no Nicky Gatland and Briony Short, it was a new centre court formation with Lizzy Northeast, Laura Finlay and Caitlin Kay. The opposition appeared older and bigger but we were not daunted and got off to a flying start taking the lead right from the start with excellent shooting from Amber O’brien. The centre court trio were outstanding, probably the best game Lizzy has ever had and Caitlin used all the work we have been doing with timing interceptions to great effect – I lost count of the number of balls she intercepted.

Always a pleasure for a coach when what is worked on it training comes through into the game.

 

The first quarter ended 12 -7 to Worthing. Sussex Uni were clearly stunned and several changes were made to their team – with only one sub – we made one change with Emma Mountford coming on at GA, Georgia moving to WA and Laura going to C. This had little effect on the game as we continued where we left off, excellent defense work from all players and strong attack, 2^nd quarter ended 23 – 14 to Worthing.

 

Again Sussex used more players – my players fitness levels were excellent – all the circuits and spinning classes over the last few weeks certainly paid off. Lizzie came back on at C and continued where she had left off, Sussex came back at us at the start of this quarter but we maintained our composure and despite a few wobbles in the shooting dept, ended the third quarter 30-20 to Worthing.

 

By this time, the girls were complaining it was too hot (rugby boys please take note !!). Laura Finlay was unable to continue due to a foot injury, Lizzie manfully continued despite a sore throat. This was our poorest quarter but to be fair, they had a squad of around 20 players to our 8. We lost this quarter by 1 but were never in danger of losing the game.

 

Excellent team performance, if we take this into Tuesdays Sussex K/O Cup game against Hurstpierpoint we will be fine.

 

I would also like to thank my guiders who manager to secure the side door of the mini bus which would not shut to enable us to get home safely, those knots were something else.

 

Thanks girls – it was a pleasure

 

Tina      

 

Man of the Match – Lizzy Northeast