Match Report Team Lightning - 13.01.2019

Team Lightning travelled to Redmaids School in Bristol to take on Almondsbury. The opposition had a huge support watching the game, but this did not phase Lightning. It was quickly noted that Almondbury's shooters were accurate and the defence of Beth Nancekivell (GD) and Amber Manley (GK) needed to put the pressure on. However, minor errors from Lightning players meant that Almondsbury took the initial lead, converting goals from stealing possession. Fighting back for their position, Lightning soon narrowed the score line and the quarter ended with 13 goals to each team. Play was fast and fierce going in to the second quarter and Rebecca Manley (WA) was having to work hard to find space. Both sides were keen for the win and the attacked worked tirelessly to feed the ball into the shooters, having to use the defence to reset on a number of occasions. The second quarter ended with Almondsbury slightly ahead by a score line of 23-22.  All was to play going into the second half of the match. Emily Risdon (GS) and player of the match, and Grace Wilton (GA) worked the ball around to get into a safe position for shooting, and Lightning were composed throughout. Although rattled, Almondsbury fought hard and again, minor errors made by Lightning players meant that they could capitalise on these and they increased their lead to two goals, which they kept for the quarter. Jo Nancekivell (WD) worked exceptionally hard and forced errors and Poppy Sampson (GD) was quick to pick up dropped balls, but Titans could not close the gap.  Third quarter ended Almondsbury 35 - Lightning 33. The win was very much wanted by both teams going into the final quarter of the match and few errors were made. Clare Wilmott (C) and Rebecca (WA) added in extra passes to keep the ball safe, and although passing was accurate and play was disciplined, the umpires spotted the minor errors made and Almondsbury were able to slightly increase their lead further. The match was tense and goal for goal until the final whistle, where Almondsbury took the win 48 over Lightning's 44.  Team Line Up:  Amber Manley, Beth Nancekivell, Jo Nancekivell, Clare Wilmott, Rebecca Manley, Grace Wilton, Emily Risdon & Poppy Sampson.