We did it!
Posted by on 2 July 2013
Devizes, who have won the local Moonraker netball league for a record six seasons in a row, were invited on the strength of their recent performances to compete for one of the remaining places in the newly formed South West Regional 3 league. Originally, the three way competition between Imperial from Bristol and Bridgwater's Jupiter was a play off to determine which teams would take the last two spots in the league, but shortly before the competition a team that had already qualified for a place in the league pulled out meaning all three teams now had places. However, the matches still took place as a useful introduction to the level of competition the clubs will face next year.
In their first match against Imperial, Devizes started strongly and led by three goals at quarter time. Imperial came out for the second quarter strongly, challenging effectively mid-court to take the sting out of the Devizes’ attack which combined with strong and accurate play from Imperials’ shooters resulted in a 33-25 loss for Devizes.
However, the young Devizes squad did not let the loss distract them, and against Jupiter they turned the tables, dominating in mid-court and leading from the first quarter. Superb defence from 15 year old Louise Buller and 17 year old Ellie Papps interrupted the Somerset team’s flow, and Devizes took advantage of the turnovers. Focussed play from the mid-court, led by captain Becki Gaiger, ensured a steady supply of balls to shooters Anna Molineaux and Hannah Sedgwick who performed brilliantly under increasing pressure from a physical defence. The final score of 42-29 ensured Devizes took a close second place to Imperials and will play in South West Regional League 3 next season.
For more information see http://www.netballsouthwest.co.uk/news/73
