Banbridge U16’s begin their NNI league campaign for new season

The young Banbridge team knew that from the outset it was going to be a very tough season especially their opening match against a very experienced Kingsway team.

Both teams, although nervous, started well but it was Kingsway who took the initial lead in the 1st quarter going ahead by 3 goals, however Banbridge worked hard to bring it back resulting in the score being even at 5-5 at the end of the quarter.

Two changes were made and the 2nd quarter started with Charley Brush replacing Sarah Connor in GK and Courtney Savage replacing Zara Sloan in WA.

Both teams had begun to settle with the Banbridge defence duo of Charley Brush and Alana Kerr working tirelessly to prevent the very skilful and agile Kingsway GA and GS entering the shooting circle.

Banbridge’s GA Jessica Thompson was being continually pressured by her very tall GD but this didn’t stop Jessica from sinking her shots.

At half time Kinsgway had edged 1 ahead leaving the score at 9-8.

The team remained the same going into the third quarter with the defence working hard pressuring every pass and picking up on the unforced errors made up Kingsway, however with a number errors made down in the Banbridge attacking third Kingsways edge further ahead. By the end of the 3rd quarter Kingsway had increased their lead by a further goal to 15-13.

Still within reach the girls took to the court with determination, however, a few missed opportunities in the circle which were then converted by Kingsway allowed the away team to increase the gap. Final score was 21-16 to Kingsway.

A huge well done to the Banbridge U16A who displayed fantastic potential for the rest of the season.

Player of the match was Alana Kerr.

Team: GK Charley Brush/Sarah Connor, GD Alana Kerr, WD Emily Wright, C Clara Cromie, WA Zara Sloan/Courtney Savage GA Jessica Thompson GS Leah Maney.

See page 44 for more reports from Banbridge Netball Club.