Vipers’ Netball team were fortunate enough to start the year with a home fixture, welcoming Kestrels, with the match being held at Norton Hill Sports Centre. Having lost their previous encounter, the Paulton side knew they were in for a tough game, but confidence was high as the teams took to the court.
The first quarter started with the hosts securing their first few goals without reply, but Vipers soon found their rhythm and the match levelled out at 4–4 after the first five minutes.
Becky and Andrea were working well together in the defensive circle and were pressuring the Kestrels’ shooting pair, forcing errors and coming away with turnover ball. However, it was the away side that led into the first break of the match, with the teams leaving the court with Kestrels leading 15–8.
Vipers made a few changes during the quarter break, with Laura moving from WA to GA, Ness taking the WA bib and Bethany coming off the bench into GD.
These changes had the desired effect, with the increased mobility in the circle allowing Paulton to pull back a few goals within the first few minutes. Kestrels soon rallied, and were able to regain control after securing several rebounded shots, utilising quick movement of the ball up the court and into their shooters.
At half time, a significant lead had been established, with Kestrels leading 27–18.
The second half saw another change to the Vipers’ line-up, with Caron returning to the court at C and Liz moving to the bench. The Paulton team were determined to pull the game back and some vital interceptions by Bethany turned over possession, allowing Vipers to send the ball back into their shooters. However, the tall Kestrel defence were able to take possession of any rebounded shots, and Paulton struggled to make any inroads into the deficit. The quarter ended with Kestrels increasing their lead, 44–26.
The final quarter continued in much the same vein, with the home team thoroughly in control of the match. But Vipers’ fighting spirit never left, and each player continued to pressure every pass and intercept any loose or weak passes. At the final whistle, the score stood 59–37 to Kestrels.
Vipers would like to thank everyone who came along to support.
Player of the Match was Helen (GS) with Players’ Player going to Bethany (GD).