Having defeated Vibrant in their previous regional game, Essex were able to follow this up with an excellent victory over The Downs. The result was achieved once again as a result of an excellent first quarter performance. From the outset, Essex outplayed The Downs. In the centre-court, Nicole Alves, Johanne Linehan, and Rebecca Wilks totally dominated their opponents. They were able to supply a constant stream of good passes into the circle which Sophia Sefton and Maddie O’Shodie took full advantage of. From the first whistle, their shooting was excellent and enabled Essex to build a substantial lead by the end of the first quarter. Defensively, Emma Shaw and Rene Hurley were both outstanding and made it very difficult for The Downs to score goals. At the end of the first quarter, Essex led 18-6. The second quarter was much more competitive and Downs came back into the game. However, Essex always had too much for them and although the scores were much closer, Essex were able to maintain their healthy lead. At half-time, Essex led 31-19. Essex made a couple of changes in the second half but they continued to pile on the goals. Sebyala Attrona was excellent in supporting Maddy O’Shodie in the circle. At centre court, Olivia Edwards came on and was soon heavily involved in the game, ensuring that Essex kept possession well. At the back, Essex defended so well that the goals virtually dried up for The Downs. With a quarter to go, the victory was sealed as Essex led 46-19. Essex did not let up in the last quarter and indeed started really well and scored 13 goals with a mere 2 in response from The Downs. Sophia Sefton came back on to court and continued to shoot well and Emma Thorogood, who also came on in the second half, defended very well. This was an excellent display by Essex and they fully deserved the points.

Shaw, Hurley, Thorogood, Alves, Linehan, Edwards, R Wilks, Sebyala, Sefton and Oshodie