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Thunder’s winning streak survives mighty Mavericks scare
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Manchester Thunder

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Saracens Mavericks

Match Details

15th May 2022
Round 18
Belle Vue
Stats Report

Match Results

Watch On: Broadcaster Logo

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First Centre Pass

Beth Ecuyer-Dale
Beth Ecuyer-Dale Cardiff Dragons View profile

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Thunder’s winning streak survives mighty Mavericks scare

15th May 2022 by Conor De Smith

Eleanor Cardwell reaches for the ball

Eleanor Cardwell led the attack as Manchester Thunder fought back to stay unbeaten Photo: Ben Lumley

Despite being outscored in two quarters, Manchester Thunder preserved their unbeaten record with a 61-53 win over Saracens Mavericks. 

Raucous home support initially rattled Saracens but they managed to slow Thunder's typical first-quarter charger and emerged from the opening stanza 18-11 up.

The visitors are averaging 70 goals a game this season and they have won every game since Round 12 by at least a 21-goal margin, so Saracens knew they couldn't afford to sit back and wait for their opportunities.

To try to turn the tide, Karen Greig moved Eleanor Cardwell to Goal Shooter and Lois Pearson was brought on as Goal Attack and immediately seemed to be free anywhere on court, always zipping around hassling the players.

But Mavericks kept applying the pressure, causing Greig to bring Joyce Mvula back on court, as the visitors took the second quarter 12-11 and an almighty shock was in store at half-time as Thunder trailed 29-23 at half-time.

The second half continued at that pace but the pairing of Cardwell and Mvula was perfect with the ball and relentless without it. Thunder turned the screw to take the lead and gradually increase it. Thunder managed to win the third quarter and go 48-39 in front thanks to their ability to slow the ball down and demonstrate their sheer skill.

Going into the final quarter, Thunder's small lead didn't mean Mavericks took it lying down given everything they still have to play for this season.

Not only had they not beaten Thunder since 2018, but they also needed a win to clinch that fourth play-off spot after finishing fifth in their lastthree  seasons. However, the final score was still with Manchester Thunder, sealing yet another win 61-53.

Match Report provided by Manchester Thunder

You can also watch the highlights from all the games in the VNSL 2022 season HERE. Buy tickets to support Manchester Thunder at their home games here and support Saracens Mavericks at their home ground by buying tickets here.

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Tags:

Manchester Thunder Saracens Mavericks