Fusion Performance League Under-15s

Conquerors 38–36 Essex Open Under-15s
Venue: Chelmer Park – Away

Our Under-15s travelled to Chelmer Park for their first Fusion Performance League game of the season, with a couple of new faces joining the squad this year. With this being the girls’ first competitive game together, there was always going to be an element of adapting to new players, new combinations and on-court partnerships.

Despite this, the girls made a strong start. They settled quickly, played some good netball and competed well throughout the opening quarter, finishing two goals ahead.

The game was extremely physical, with Conquerors bringing a very strong and physical style of play. The level of contact made the game a real challenge for our girls, who are not accustomed to playing in such a physical environment. Nevertheless, they continued to compete and did not allow the physical nature of the game to affect their attitude.

The second quarter proved more difficult. With a couple of positional changes as the coaches looked to develop combinations and partnerships with the new players, the girls struggled to convert their attacking opportunities into goals. Defensively, Conquerors gained the upper hand, and our initial two-goal advantage was overturned, leaving the Under-15s nine goals behind at half-time.

The girls regrouped at the break, and importantly, they also had a chat amongst themselves before returning to court. They agreed that they needed to keep their heads up, continue fighting and trust their own game.

That conversation clearly had an impact.

The third quarter saw a fantastic response. The girls showed real character, continued to work hard and started clawing their way back into the game. They reduced the deficit from nine goals to just four going into the final quarter.

The physicality continued throughout the game, but credit to the girls, they did not let the contact or rough nature of the contest get into their heads. Instead, they remained focused on playing their netball and fighting for every ball.

The final quarter was a fantastic contest. The Under-15s continued to battle and steadily chipped away at the deficit. With just one minute remaining, the girls had drawn level, completing an excellent fightback.

Unfortunately, it was just a step too far. Conquerors managed to take advantage in the final minute and scored twice to secure a 38–36 victory.

Despite the result, there was plenty for the girls to be proud of. For a team playing together for the first time, against a very physical opposition, the way they responded from nine goals down demonstrated great character, resilience and togetherness.

It was a highly competitive and entertaining game, thoroughly enjoyed by the spectators, with both teams deserving plenty of applause for the quality and competitiveness of the contest.

Player of the Match: Azra