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Photos: Jack Western
The netball season resumed on Sunday with an impressive James side defeating Halifax 23-7. However the score line perhaps did not do justice to Halifax who, particularly in the first half, defended resolutely and had numerous scoring opportunities.
The first half was relatively even with James moving into a two-goal lead almost immediately, but they were quickly pegged back by a resolute Halifax side. Both sides were relatively evenly matched with possession pretty much equal and the two teams within one goal of each other.
However, as the half continued James started to move away ending the half 10-4 in the lead. The differences between the sides were often minimal with the James shooters Tessa Russell and Samantha Hall often proving more clinical in front of goal than their Halifax counterparts, along with some well-timed interceptions by the James defence making the difference. Halifax also weren’t helped by conceding the majority of penalties as they attempted to claw back the earlier deficit.
The second half, however, quickly moved towards James as they moved into top gear. Their attackers were on scintillating form going through periods where they didn’t seem able to miss. GA Samantha Hall was supremely clinical in front of goal and GS Tessa Russell was on superb form, gaining confidence as the half continued and was able to pull out a number of fantastic goals.
This coincided with James being able to take control of virtually all areas of the court in a way they were not able to in the first period, as they scored 13 points to their opponents’ 3, and quickly put the game beyond doubt. However Halifax never gave up and were able to at least gain more of a foothold in the half as it neared its conclusion.
James Captain Anisha Wilmink was quick to praise the Halifax side, especially their defence. Understandably she was also “really pleased with the performance” especially as it was their first game of the year and thus boded well for the rest of the season.
James: Anisha Wilmink (C)(GK), Rebecca Pay-Savage (GD), Elena Mathew (WD), Izzi Mattick (C), Ellie Redmond (WA), Samantha Hall (GA), Tessa Russell (GS).
Halifax: Rebecca Gill (C)(GK), Sarah Moody (GD), Lo Jones (C), Lauren Gillespy (WD), Chloe Quilliam (WA). Kat Robinson (GS), Becky Gabbitas (GA).
Vision Player of the Match: Tessa Russell (GS)