In a match that felt like a win, which included a rigmarole of injuries and the need to bring in a new player, York 3rds fought hard against top of the league Sheffield 3rds with the game dramatically ending 34-34.
Sheffield started with intent with excellent shooting and strong play, capitalising on York’s simple mistakes. But York brought up their game with defence putting on the pressure, with Eliza Ackland working well in the circle and Jade Naylor fighting for the ball bringing York into the lead. However with Sheffield playing well the quarter ended with York behind at 5-9.
A determined team talk and York came out fighting getting a turnover straight away and converting. With the Mel Okuneye working hard the Sheffield GA was becoming frustrated. Continuing with the excellent work down the court the play between Rachel Turner and Becky Coomber in particular working really well, York continued their fight back into the game with Sam Hall getting her shots in despite tight marking from the Sheffield ‘keeper. The quarter ended with York still behind by three at 14-17.
With the third quarter underway York struggled to keep their momentum as Sheffield began to take the turn overs. But with Rachel Turner snatching for the ball and fantastic shooting from Sam Hall, York pushed on for a win. York continued to capitalise on their opponents’ mistakes as Eliza Ackland’s movement around the circle led to conversions. Emily Turpin and Mel Okuneye continued their hard work gaining tips, but Sheffield shooters where refusing to miss their shots and the quarter ended 23-25.
With the match tight and York down by two they need to come out fighting, and with real determination they did. Applying the pressure and forcing Sheffield to hold the ball, York were gaining turnovers. York managed to get match back to 26–26 through a great interception by Mel Okuneye. As York took the lead concentration was kept with every player fighting for the ball and defence working incredibly hard. Sheffield where still fighting and with the scores tied during the last minute, a missed shot from Eliza Ackland resulted in the game ending 34-34.
Captain Ackland who was also the well-deserved man of the match was ‘so happy’ after the game, saying that it was “one of the most exciting games of netball I’ve ever played and even though it was a draw it felt like a win as they were top of the league and at home.” The girls can end the term on a high and hopefully continue their work into next term as they carry on their storming performances.
Vision Player of the Match: Eliza Ackland