GRASSHOPPER’S UNBEATEN RUN BROKEN BY BRIDGFORD

Grasshopper made a great start to their first game of 2018, winning the advantage of the first centre. However, this advantage was soon lost as Bridgford’s Centre intercepted the pass. In fact, the opposition’s Centre intercepted Grasshopper’s centre passes on several occasions, putting Bridgford on the front foot. This, coupled with a number of Grasshopper unforced errors, meant Grasshopper trailed 12-16 after the first quarter.

The second quarter was a closely fought contest but Grasshopper’s defence could not contain Bridgford’s shooters. This helped the opposition stretch their lead to 22-34 at half time. Grasshopper was in unfamiliar territory.

Coach Anne Melling made some changes at half time, switching Sarah Melling from WD to GD, bringing on Carly Varney at WD, reintroducing Hannah Wale as C, and moving Lois Taylor to WA. This change in formation helped Grasshopper. The quarter went goal-for-goal for long periods, and was eventually drawn 14-14, meaning Bridgford led 36-48 overall.

The final quarter saw Sarah Melling come off and Sadie Burch return to the defensive circle. However, the strength, height and accuracy of Bridgford’s GS was too much and Grasshopper could not catch up, despite a spirited effort. Final score, Grasshopper 49-67 Bridgford, Grasshopper’s first defeat this season.