[visiongallery set=72157641917663473]
Photos: Zoe Bennell
York Netball 1sts put on an exceptional display for supporters in the tent on Wednesday afternoon, beating Sheffield 2nds 52-42 to gain promotion into the next BUCS league.
There were plenty of nerves surrounding the court before the match as York prepared for their most important match of the year, however once the match got underway even the most pessimistic of doubters would have had to admit that there was little doubt as to who would head for victory.
It was all systems go for the hosts, taking command from the very start of the match with swift attacks, intricate passing and a pace that Sheffield simply weren’t expecting and couldn’t contain. Goal-shooter Grace Clarke and goal-attack Emma Loft found a way of threading through the Sheffield defence and made easy work of creating a comfortable lead in the first quarter.
A great attack and burst of energy to keep the ball in play and sustain an attack from Loft showed just how passionate York were about winning this game. While their shooting could not be faulted, Sheffield were missing a number of chances that should have been taken. The first quarter ended 18-10, with Sheffield needing to be much tighter at the back to have a chance against the landslide that was York’s attack.
It was the home side however that seemed to close the door on their opponents with Sheffield failing to score at all for the majority of the second quarter. York took advantage of this profligacy, increasing their lead and playing with a flow that seemed impossible to halt with a lead of 23-10. This didn’t last however with Sheffield finally clawing back the deficit, capitalising on some misguided passes form the home side. The visitors began to work attacks much better, however York responded with solid defending, goal defence Green with an excellent block to the delight of the crowd.
The White Rose maintained a strong lead of 28-16 going into the 3rd quarter, though Sheffield kept fighting, claiming goals as the game became equal in pressure with goal after goal in each end. The difference between the sides however was the fact that again Sheffield missed chances that should have been certain goals, while shooter Clarke was able to bring York closer to promotion; almost every shot on target ensuring a miserable affair for the Sheffield defence.
York were able to maintain a 10-point lead, despite Sheffield responding in the final quarter with a late flurry of attacks. It was in vain though, with too large a deficit to make up, and the final whistle brought cheers of celebration from the entire netball community as York gained promotion, winning 52-42.
A speechless York captain Bronwen Dalley Smith, surrounded by champagne and hugs managed to comprehend her delight to Vision: ‘I’m just immensely proud of the girls, I couldn’t be happier and I can’t wait for Roses!”