Netball: U16’s earn first win at Antrim Forum

With Causeway only taking the court with six players, Banbridge were hopeful of getting their first win.

Banbridge had a great start to the match being able to convert their own centre passes and turning over almost all of Causeways giving them a fantastic lead of 10-2 at the end of the first quarter.

Going into the 2nd quarter Causeway changed their WA to WD which put more pressure on the Banbridge attack as each of them now had man to man marking. This seemed to unsettle Banbridge and Causeway scored 5 consecutive goals at the very start of the quarter. Still ahead, Banbridge started to correct their errors and were able to add to their goal tally. However, Causeway had greatly reduced the difference. Half time score Banbridge 15 – 11 Causeway.

After a much needed interval Banbridge took to the court with a positive attitude knowing that to extend their lead they needed to be strong in attack and eliminate the unforced errors. With Emily Wright in WD having no opposition to mark she partnered with Alana Kerr in GD to stop the Causeway GA from getting to the circle. The pair worked excellently together sending the ball straight down to the Bann attack where Jessica Thompson provided some fantastic shooting. Causeway with their clear height advantage were still able to add to their scoring. End of the 3rd quarter score was Banbridge 24 – 14 Causeway.

Having edged further ahead Banbridge were quietly confident however as tiredness increased, play from both teams went from one end of the court to the other without any score added. Banbridge extended the lead late on. End score was 30-18.

Well done to the girls on their first win of the season. Player of the match – Jessica Thompson.