Harriers down Ravens - and Flames' hot form continues

Ravens struggled to build any real momentum as GK Catherine Faircloth and GD Franki Brown consistently defended their third, demonstrating superb skill and a rapid response to rebounds. Centre-court players including WD Julie Lovell, centre Laura Birkhead (captain) and WA Jo Laker pushed their opponents all over the court and forced multiple errors, and then later took full advantage of the increasingly open space left by Ravens.

Poor weather conditions in the third quarter resulted in poor passing errors, but shooter Lindsey Cox and Sarah Harvey were having no such trouble and Harriers finished with a huge and satisfying win.

Fishbourne Flames 26 Red Admirals 21

Flames played out of their skins to secure a well-deserved victory against talented Admirals.

Flames scored first and were always ahead but the result was never assured.

In the first quarter, Bernie Twigg was excellent out of position as goal shooter while Catherine Hutchin continues to impress with her ability to score consistently from a distance.

The Admirals’ centre proved very effective and Julie Harding rose to the challenge by hanging back and moving into position late, ensuring she received the ball and was able to distribute it up the court.

The second quarter saw the scoreline widening and Angela Rusoce made a useful contribution on the wing and skilfully found space to ensure the ball got into the circle.

There was a constant threat from the athletic Admirals’ goal attack and Caroline Eames worked hard to contain her.

Christine Huggett was able to make some crucial interceptions and passed the ball out well from the back line.

The team were lifted by the arrival of Liz Adlington and Laura Maddicks in time to make a telling contribution to the final quarter.

FLAMES: Harding, Eames, Adlington, Huggett, Hutchin, Maddicks, Twigg, Ruscoe, Leeming.