York Netball firsts had a torrid encounter with Northumbria 3rds in tent 2, as they found themselves on the wrong end of a 19-29 beating. The home side were left to rue their missed chances as the travellers consistently scored to put the game out of York’s reach.
The first quarter witnessed a tight exchange between both sides. Captain Becky O’Dwyer busied herself as the centre, orchestrating York’s early attacks early on and linking well with Nina Pullman, who will be frustrated with her early efforts. The goal attack however soon found some success, aided by the lively goal shooter Kay Masterson, whose shot to put York 3-2 up was the highlight of the quarter. Northumbria’s attacking force however hit the blocks running and ensured their side had a 3-6 lead at the break.
The Northumbrians continued to pile on the pressure in the second quarter, their goal shooter in particular scoring regularly to keep York firmly at bay. Lottie Knight defended well to subdue the threat as best as possible, however the Northumbria counter attack was relentless. Pullman’s calm finishing was still evident and the speed and creativity of York’s passing game allowed the home side some great chances on goal. Their opponent’s attacks however were superior in finishing consistency, and York’s inability to convert their attacks regularly cost them dearly. At half-time Northumbria were cruising at 8-15.
The game was put further out of York’s reach in the third quarter as the Northumbrian goal attack continued with her impervious form. Georgia Neblett had a tough time subduing the constant threat, however did well to force York counter attacks. Pullman and Masterson both struggled to find success as York could only muster 2 points in the quarter, with the sides at 10-23 heading into the final stage.
Both sides battled well and appeared to be evenly matched in the fourth quarter as O’Dwyer’s side rallied to perform a miracle. Kay Masterson shone and set the tent alight with her terrific effort to pull York one back at 11-23. Bronwyn Dalley Smith in wing attack gave energy to the York effort and the home side were able to reduce the deficit before the final whistle.
The 19-29 score line should take nothing away from the York effort, as at times their build up play was exquisite, particularly in the final quarter. Captain Becky O’Dwyer commented, ‘we didn’t have our full strength squad out today however I still think we battled extremely well. We never gave up and it certainly showed with our efforts in the final quarter’.