Match Report - Team Lightning 23.9.18​

Sunday 23rd Sept 2018  - Team Lightning started their campaign back in Division One of the South West Regional League with a fine win over Galmington.

Lightning took to the court for the first match of the season in Plymouth, against Taunton side Galmington. Following a good warm up, the team went on strong with quick passing from centre court into the circle. However, a few errors meant Galmington took on the initial lead of 3 goals within the first few minutes. This was enough to wake the Lightning squad up and quick passing and interceptions from both Jo Nancekivell and Amber Manley, meant Beth Nancekivell(GA) and Emily Risdon(GS) could put away the goals. Lightning quickly took the lead.

Q1 - 12 - 9 (up)

In the 2nd quarter, Lightning played strong and utilised the skills rehearsed at training earlier in the week, focussing on 'Phase Zero', and forcing the quick Galmington players to make errors. Lightning maximised on the errors made and continued their lead, with Grace Wilton and Beth Nancekivell shooting accurately. Poppy Sampson(GD) and Amber(GK) forced Galmington players to pass the ball around and continued to make it difficult for the Galmington shooters to score. Unfortunately, injury took Clare Wilmott off the court and Rebecca Manley took on the centre bib. Following the injury, further determination by the players was evident and they took another win in the 2nd quarter.

Q2 - 25-20 (up)

Michelle Sampson at WA was a new set up for Lightning squad in the third quarter. Her accurate passing and feeds meant Galmington players were having to work hard for the interceptions. The match was tight and errors were made by both teams, but Lightning kept their lead.

Q3 - 35-29 (up)

With only 6 goals between the teams, all was to play for in the final quarter.  Galmington came onto court fighting. Their slick passing and accurate shooting narrowed the score line. With only two or three goals between the teams towards the end of the quarter, it was neck and neck. Fortunately, Poppy Sampson(GD) and Beth Nancekivell(C) made crucial interceptions and the final whistle secured a win for Titans Lightning by a two goal margin.

FINAL SCORE 44-42 WIN

Players - Amber Manley, Poppy Sampson, Michelle Sampson, Jo Nancekivell, Clare Wilmott, Rebecca Manley, Beth Nancekivell, Grace Wilton & Emily Risdon