Match Report - Team Lightning 17.3.19

Team Lightning pulled out a fine victory over local rivals Carol Anne Diamonds in the SW Regional League. Knowing that it was going to be a close encounter, after only winning by the single goal before Christmas, Lightning came into the fixture all prepared, with positive mental attitude instilled within the team, they played with 14 hands and 7 hearts on the court, to win 43-39. The support from the crowd was definitely a positive factor, with many supporters for both teams. Both started well, and that set the tone for the rest of the game. Nothing could separate the teams, and both came in from the first quarter, with 10 goals a piece.  No changes were made to Lightning for the 2nd period. Poppy Sampson and Amber Manley were working tirelessly in the defence circle, with Poppy making many a tip and rebounds to give Lightning every opportunity.  Safe and accurate passes throughout the court continued, with Beth Nancekivell, Clare Wilmott and Rebecca Manley linking up well with Lightning shooting duo of Grace Wilton & Emily Risdon.  At half time, only one goal could separate Lightning, being 21-20 up. A tactical change for Lightning for the 3rd quarter, so Beth Nancekivell move into the centre bib role, Rebecca Manley back into WD, and Clare Wilmott moving to WA. This had a positive impact on Lightning, with 5 out of 7 Titans players gaining interceptions for this quarter, and securing a shot for goal for player of the match Grace Wilton. Only 2 unforced errors, enabled Lightning to take a three goal advantage coming in from the 3rd quarter. Diamonds were certainly not going to give it to us easy, and they came out of the blocks for the 4th quarter to take 4 goals without reply from Lightning.  Titans could have crumbled at this point, but they stayed composed and carried on with their game plan. Unforced errors were kept to a minimum, and the accurate shots from Grace and Emily saw us take a lead of 5 goals, when there were only 4 minutes of play left. Lightning saw the opportunity to enable ball possession to allow the clock to tick down. Coaches and supporters were raising their voices from the sidelines, and the momentum of the game had swung into Lightning's favour. With belief and confidence, Lightning were able to take the win by 4 goals, 43-39. Team Line Up: Amber Manley, Poppy Sampson, Beth Nancekivell, Clare Wilmott, Rebecca Manley, Grace Wilton, Emily Risdon, Michelle Sampson & Jo Nancekivell. Player of the match went to Grace Wilton by the opposition, as well as Titans.  Her calm manner on court, and fantastic movement, with shooting stats of 74% was richly deserved.