A Strong Southgate beat 2nd place Lincoln

On Sunday 24th November the most anticipated netball match of the year so far commenced. With both teams undefeated, it was set to be a good match as Lincoln City took on newly-formed Southgate of Derbyshire.

The starting line-up was similar to the team who defeated Northants JM’s, with the exception of Lucy Heathershaw who was reinstated as GD. Lizzie Saywell made a fantastic interception as GK and Amy Womersley was strong at receiving centre passes. Lincoln pushed hard in the first quarter with Becky Baker’s exceptional shooting, but Southgate were too strong as they took a nine-goal lead, leaving Lincoln trailing 11-20 after the first quarter.

In the second quarter Jade Houlton came on at GD and Amy and Becky switched positions in attack. Vic Adams was great at marking centre passes, but Lincoln made some unforced errors which were easily turned over. To confound matters, Southgate’s shooters were outstanding and they barely missed, resulting in a 19-40 score line at half time.

Lincoln’s Lucy returned to the court as WD in the third quarter, whilst Abby Johnson moved to C and the attackers switched back into their original positions. Anna Gilbert proved to be a solid WA option with great feeds into the shooters. Lincoln were able to turn over possession more in this quarter but still trailed 27-54 going into the final fifteen minutes.

In previous matches the final quarter has been Lincoln’s toughest, however they kept fighting and only lost the quarter by a single goal. Lucy and Jade were great at supporting the attack, with the majority of the team making tips and interceptions throughout the court, including Beth Richardson who returned as C.

Final score: Lincoln City 41 – 69 Southgate.

Becky Baker was once again chosen as best player, proving herself to be an important part of the Lincoln City team. Lizzie Saywell was awarded the Player’s ‘Player’ as she made tips and interceptions throughout.