Narrow win for Netball firsts whilst Seconds dominate at York
Netball Firsts and Seconds reign victorious at the start of the new term, whilst Fourths struggle against tough Teeside
Newcastle 1sts 37-30 Leeds 2nds
Although starting 2012 at the top of the league, Newcastle 1sts were not complacent and after some narrow victories last year knew this first match of the year had to be successful.
Fired up with dreams of promotion, the Royals got off to a good start leading 13-8 at quarter time giving the team a confidence boost. Newcastle continued to extend their lead at half time after outstanding teamwork between Centre Jo Murnane and player-of- the-match Hannah Swainson.
However after the half time break errors started to creep in allowing Leeds to capitalise unfortunately reducing the Royal’s lead.
Knowing a win was vital to keep their league position, the Royal’s remained calm, pushing through to the final whistle and securing a fair 37-30 result.
Newcastle 2nds 52-34 York St John 1sts
The Royal’s second team got off to a difficult start, giving York an immediate advantage which they sustained until the end of first quarter. But in true form, Newcastle quickly responded and was up by 11 by the half time whistle.
York struggled to compete with the skill of the Royals turning to a more physical attack and a yellow card or two.
However Newcastle rose above this and with some great attacks from Steph Blain eventually progressed to a decisive 52-34 victory placing them in prime position for the promotion.
Newcastle 4ths 42-46 Teeside 2nds
Newcastle fourths made the short trip to Teeside with hopes of starting 2012 on a winning streak. After a slow start, the Royals fell behind, losing 12-4 at the end of the first quarter, a deficit which carried through to the end of the first half.
The team regrouped and started the second half positively. Following some excellent defending from Freya Cromarty and Emma Clyde-Smith, the team forced many turnovers which were smoothly converted with excellent shooting from player of the match Pippa Jackson.
Although the team began to quickly fight back, time was running out and as the final whistle was blown Teeside claimed a close 46-42 victory against Newcastle.
Despite a disappointing loss the team put in a solid second half performance showing true determination from the 4ths which they aim to take into their next matches.
