Pulse seal top spot with win over Lightning

A close-fought encounter saw little to separate the sides, with Pulse decisively pulling marginally clear in the second quarter before holding off a late Lightning comeback.

“It was a tight game against a strong Loughborough team and I am so proud of this squad," said Pulse head coach Sam Bird.

"They focused on executing against the game plan and deserved this win. It’s also fantastic to have secured a home semi-final – the crowd here are tremendous and we are so grateful for the support of our fans."

Pulse got off to a strong start taking an early 4-1 lead but Lightning settled into the game and pulled back the score to 13-13, before the hosts took a one-goal lead at the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter started in a tense fashion with the score pulling back to draw 23-23. A tip from Funmi Fadoju broke the tie and Pulse began to fly.

An attacking intercept from Berri Neil set the home crowd on fire and Pulse won the quarter 17-13 with the score at 33-28.

Pulse started the third quarter strong and went out to an eight-goal lead. There were tips all over the court from Pulse but Lightning would not lie down and ensured the quarter was not a one-way affair.

Pulse still managed to edge the quarter 15-14 and the score was out to a six-goal lead for Pulse at 48-42.

With the game still winnable for both teams the last quarter was always going to be a good one and it did not disappoint. Intercepts from both teams all over the court – Zara Everitt dominated outside of the circle and shooters and middies were showing their defensive prowess.

Ellie Rattu entered the court at centre for Pulse replacing Jade Clarke. Lightning managed to take the quarter 13-16 but Pulse did enough to take the game 61-58 and secure that home semi-final.

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