Lightning produce big third quarter to get past Sirens

Full-court action for the entire game and saw Lightning end the game with their ninth win of the season whilst retaining their fourth-place spot in the table, while Sirens remain seventh.

From the blow of the whistle at the centre pass, Sirens made their presence felt with a relentless, controlled attack against Lightning which proved successful as they led early on.

The fluidity of the Sirens’ attack continued however impressive covering from Nat Panagarry along with interceptions from Fran Williams in defence created across-court build-up play for Lightning and provided confidence as the quarter progressed.

Communication and quick successive passing were particularly noticeable from both teams throughout the first quarter with only one goal separating both teams into the second quarter.

👐 Quick hands
🏐 Turnover stats through the roof
🏅 Copious amounts of accolades

Your @GilbertNetball Player of the Match is @fwills11 🤩 pic.twitter.com/mx2OL7DzMr

— Netball Super League (@NetballSL) April 17, 2023

 It was a strong second quarter from both teams, as play strengthened and took shape for the rest of the game. Hannah Joseph’s movement within the middle section of the court provided space for Lightning to be on the attack and brought precise shooting from Emma Thacker.

The Lightning defence of Alice Harvey and Williams halted the attacking chances from Sirens’ perseverance in attack and regained possession.

Lightning took the lead for the first time since the centre pass with four minutes of the quarter but went in one goal behind as the two sides could barely be separated.

However the third quarter saw Lightning take control of the contest, carving out an eight-goal cushion thanks to Panagarry and William's intelligent passing and moving combinations to exploit space in the Sirens’ team. Mary Cholhok’s reach and air presence helped to defeat the Siren’s defenders and increase Lightning’s confidence for the win.

Rhea Dixon entered the court during the third quarter and was smart in her play, using a range of passing to quieten Sirens. Bounce passes were prevalent across the Lighting team as the Sirens marking stepped up to regain their dominant start to the game.

Huge congratulations to Jas Odeogberin who has been named @Long_Tall_Sally Player of the Match! ⚡️💜 #lightningstrikes pic.twitter.com/9D7hdjmMgT

— Loughborough Lightning Netball Team (@LboroLightning) April 23, 2023

Lightning’s court dominance became present in the game's final quarter as there was a sense of calm confidence in the attack with balls constantly being fed to Cholhok.

Sirens did not give up their hope of making up the goal difference whilst bringing on multiple substitutions to the game and they kept the pressure up as Lightning attacking players lunged forward.

Lightning managed to secure the win with a 19-goal difference over their opposition but the dedication and excitement from both teams’ play were to be commended.

Fran William was named as Gilbert Player of the Match for her constant battle in defence.

Lightning’s next home match comes against Manchester Thunder on 29^th April at 6 pm at the Sir David Wallace Arena, tickets can be bought here.

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