York 1sts continued their unbeaten run this season in their chase for promotion, as they overcame Sheffield 2nds 51-39 in game where the York ladies dominated right from the start.
Storming out for the first quarter, the White Rose built up an early two-goal cushion over their opponents. Grace Clarke’s fluid movement across the D lead to the lead increasing dominance by York. Rachel Turner worked hard at C, causing Sheffield to make silly mistakes and York to capitalize with quick and safe passes. Despite Sheffield attempts to convert their goals Grace Baker at GK calmly dealt with rebound and sent the ball down court and the quarter ended 17-6.
A scrappy York centre started the 2nd quarter, but York quickly picked up where they left off with Carrie Green reading Sheffield’s passing and taking numerous interceptions. York had their own mistakes but worked well rectify them, a loose ball from Bronwen Dalley-Smith being picked up by Sheffield was quickly won back and converted into a goal by Emma Loft.
Unfortunately, part way through the 2nd quarter GD, Lucy Daymond went over on her ankle. Clearly in a lot of pain, time was called and changes were made, as Daymond was helped off the court. Play got back underway, and York made sure the disruption didn’t affect them for long, and as they entered the 3rd quarter they still led at 32-15.
The Sheffield play got stronger towards the end of the game as they became more evenly matched with York as they picked up the pace and won the 3rd quarter but York still held the overall lead at 41-26.
Going into the final quarter firmly in command, York just needed to maintain their lead to ensure victory. Despite losing their opening centre pass to Sheffield, York played out the rest of the quarter with quick attacking and dynamic play. Rhian Evans at WD linked well with the attack providing much needed support. Sheffield gave as good as they got and netted some swift shots courtesy of their GS in the final stages of the game. York kept their games heads on and Emma Loft worked the ball around the circle beautifully to create some wonderful goals.
The game ended 51-39 to York. Captain Bronwen Dalley-Smith commented after the game; ‘am so proud of the effort put in by all despite the match posing huge difficulties. The fact we still rose to the challenge and were not affected by Sheffield’s alarming aggression, in addition to regrettably losing Lucy to injury and Carrie obtaining a broken finger, shows that we have what it takes to rightfully stay at the top of the table. I couldn’t be happier for the girls.’
Vision MOTM: Rachel Turner