The University of Leeds netball 3s failed to make the quarter finals of the Northern Conference Cup after an unfortunate defeat to a strong Manchester Met side. A tough game was expected with Leeds’ opponents 3 divisions above the Gryphons, yet careless mistakes in the first quarter interrupted the potential for skillful passing from the Gryphons, while careless penalties were also conceded. Manchesters tough and focused defence restricted space in Leeds’ attacking third, making passing around the semi cirle nearly impossible and thus preventing goalscoring opportunities.
A more determined Leeds team returned to the court for the second quarter, though the Gryphons passing was at times off target, which saw the ball repeatedly fall into Manchesters hands. The away side got their noses ahead as Leeds failed to intercept their hurling passes. Strong attacking play from wing attack Wild, goal attack Ingrouille and goal shooter Duncan gave Leeds the chance of a comeback, but steely defence from Manchester kept them at bay.
With a halftime score of 17-12, Leeds were in need of an energy boost to turn the game around. After conceding two goals within the opening minute of the second half, the confidence of an already overwhelmed Leeds team now took a beating. Tensions rose between Manchesters defence and leeds’ attack, and with frustration impeding the flow of the game, shots on target lacked the required level of skill and accuracy.
Despite a score of 28-16, Leeds looked like a fresh team ready to give a last push in the final quarter. A change in the Manchester defence cooled the tensions, and Ingrouille and Duncan netted thanks to driven passes from Cummins and Gee. Just as Leeds looked like they were getting themselves back into the game, Manchester took control of the frantic game, making the final score 44-27.
Although this was a disappointing loss for the Leeds team, they put up a stern test against strong opposition and they can certainly take the positives into next weeks league match against York 1s.
Charlotte Stones
Image courtesy of Alice Greenfield