Lincoln City made one change to the team that had defeated TFC Too in their last game – Beth Richardson making a strong return at Centre (C). However, the Imps conceded three goals before Becky Baker and Anna Gilbert began hitting the net. Lincoln pulled the score back in the end though to level the game at 10-10 after the first fifteen minutes.
Lincoln remained unchanged for the second period. They started strongly, making a number of interceptions in defence. Lizzie Saywell, Lucy Heathershaw and Vic Adams overturned possession on several occasions, allowing Lincoln to take a four-goal lead at half time: 20-16. Nottingham Knights squad: Fiona Hale (GS), Clair Corlett (GA), Katie Cresswell (WA), Daniella Gatt (C), Samantha Carter (WD), Justine Drury (GD), Zoie Aiken (GK), Beth Moore (Sub), Karen Cresswell (Coach).
Nottingham Knights had had a successful first half of the season which saw them hold third position in the league table. They were determined not to let fourth-placed Bluetits steal their spot but Bluetits had beaten Nottingham Knights during their first encounter earlier on in the season. Sunday saw the return match against Northants JMs in the East Midlands Netball Regional League Division 2. Unfortunately, a very sluggish start saw Grasshoppers quickly fall behind and they were losing at the end of the first quarter. Coach, Anne Melling made several changes, which proved to be good ones, as Grasshoppers caught up and then overtook JMs to lead at half time.
Unfortunately, Grasshoppers could not maintain their level of play during the third quarter though and JMs began to dominate through some consistent and accurate shooting from their GS. Despite close marking in the defensive circle and some good interceptions from Grasshopper’s Player of the Match, Kate Garner, JMs extended their lead going into the final quarter. Grasshopper’s game began to flow a little more during the last fifteen minutes and they made a concerted effort to level the score. However, their efforts were in vain as JMs maintained their lead and deservedly won the game by 4 goals. Final score: Northants JMs 40 – 36 Grasshopper NC. Lincoln made a convincing return to the East Midlands Regional League Division 2 with a win over TFC Too. The Imps have had numerous knee injuries and so had to adapt their squad over the season. Megan Samways returned to regional competition at Centre (C), whilst Anna Gilbert slotted in at Goal Attack (GA). The rest of the team remained unchanged.
Both teams were excellent in the first quarter, but Lincoln edged ahead through consistent shooting from Becky Baker and precise feeds from Abby Johnson. Megan and Lizzie Saywell made numerous interceptions allowing Lincoln’s attack to convert time after time. The score after the first quarter was 18-10 to Lincoln.
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