Netball team records first victory after hard fought match (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Netball team records first victory after hard fought match

IN what proved a massive shot in the arm for their netball team, Cirencester A took vital points in a close but much needed 49-46 home victory on Saturday against newly promoted Churchdown.

With Town missing a number of regulars, captain Ann Hacker had to make best use of the squad available to her.

The first quarter went off with a bang and it did not take long for the local ladies to get a good grip on the match.

They played a steady game and worked hard to establish a clear lead and, after the first quarter, Cirencester held an important 14-11 advantage.

After a valiant effort in the attacking circle from Lisa James (GA) and Sarah Smith (GS), it looked as though Cirencester ladies were playing at full stretch to keep the goals coming.

Ann Hacker (centre) and Sarah Evans (WA) continued to deliver some punishing passes into the attacking circle.

Their endeavours resulted in highly prized goals that the team clearly needed to keep the lead they had established in the first quarter.

The second quarter brought a welcome increase to the hosts' tally and saw Cirencester leading 29 goals to 23 at half-time.

Recharged with the addition of super-sub Marian Preen (WA), the whole team set off to play the third quarter with a positive frame of mind having enjoyed the first half of the match.

The Cirencester defence team, that included Jenny Hulse (WD), Lucia Grindrod (GD) and Jo Champion (GK), put in 110 percent effort.

And some excellent interceptions in the defending half gave Cirencester a useful 40-33 lead.

In last quarter, Churchdown responded by putting up a tough fight to salvage an extra point from the game.

But it wasn't enough as Town emerged the clear winners, finishing with three-goal lead.

And so Cirencester ladies finished the game by celebrating their first win this season. Player of the match was awarded to Lucia Grindrod.