Grangetown reports

End of season review (sort of...)

30/4/2020

I’m now into my seventh week of carrying out my clerical role within the NHS from home. The introduction of lockdown has changed all our lives in ways that would have been unimaginable at the start of the year, but I am so grateful to everyone faced with the difficult daily challenges of caring for those who are unwell or in need as well as those whose jobs are essential to keeping the country afloat in these unprecedented times.

I just hope that it won’t be too long before aspects of life that we took for granted will become possible again, although I feel certain the world that I’ve known for the past 55 years will never quite be the same again.

Life without sport seems so strange … gone is that weekend anticipation and excitement of live action, whether as a player or spectator. The occasional gem from yesteryear pops up on television, but there’s nothing like being out on the pitch, or the court, or watching on from the sidelines – and it’s ironic that the warmest April in many a year has coincided with the one time in most of our living memories that the cricket season hasn’t even been able to get underway.

I haven’t watched a great deal of live cricket since I retired from playing (due to popular demand) some 15 years ago; I still manage to catch up with old friends at an occasional Newcastle Thunder rugby league fixture, but my main interest since moving to Middlesbrough has become netball – and, in particular, Prem 1 club Grangetown.

My netball playing “career” was as short as it was embarrassingly bad, but from a 2014 “challenge” to have a go at being a goal shooter, I have graduated to providing match reports for the club’s elite squad. Less energetic, but I’ve definitely become a far better player since handing back my bib!

Grangetown’s rise to national prominence has been incredible. Consecutive promotions took the side into the top-flight of national club netball, but even the most optimistic wouldn’t have predicted a fourth-place finish in 2018/19.

There was a lot of confidence amongst the players and coaching staff that such a remarkable achievement could be replicated, but I was quite concerned that the second-season would be much tougher, with the other clubs having had the opportunity watch Grangetown and learn about their strengths and maybe spot one or two weaknesses.

The season started slowly with two home defeats, but a third-round win at Leeds Athletic finally got the proverbial ball rolling. There were some fantastic games and results over the subsequent months: hanging on to beat Hucclecote by a single goal after the visitors had launched a stunning final-quarter comeback; winning at Tameside for the second year in succession; outstanding results away at Hucclecote and Turnford; but none of the foregoing could match the sheer drama of the round 17 fixture at home to Academy, when Grangetown fought brilliantly to claw back a 17-goal deficit and draw a game they might even have won had the hooter not sounded with Niamh McCall about to set herself for a shot that everyone in the arena, with the exception of one reporter, would have converted.

The result left Grangetown in fifth position, with anything from fourth to sixth a possibility with one round remaining. Realistically I can’t see those final fixtures being played, but whatever is decided, the remaining games wouldn’t have any effect on the league title as Oldham had already deservedly retained the championship. At the other end of the table, one point separates the bottom two, which isn’t an ideal situation, but fortunately it doesn’t impact on Grangetown, whose individual and collective skill, determination and dedication has been amply rewarded by retaining their place as one of the country’s elite netball clubs.

At some point in the hopefully not-too-distant future, the club will get the chance to hand out an award or too; but in the meantime, here are a few thoughts from my spot on the side of the court – with the proviso that Grangetown’s (in fact every club’s) achievements are a team effort and singling out any one player does not reduce the contribution of every single member off the squad.

Player of the Season – Kyra Jones
What a privilege to be able to watch sisters Kyra and Ash play on the same side for the first time in the best part of a decade – two amazing athletes. Ash is just brilliant; she has made such a difference to the club and had another fantastic season; but Kyra’s experience, energy and sublime skill brought something really special to the crucial centre-court area.

Best Newcomer – Becks Thompson
Claudia’s injury left a big hole at the heart of the Grangetown defence, but Becks has had a superb first season. She’s one of the best athletes in the squad, and a relentless competitor; I still remember the way she got under Kathryn Turner’s skin in the game at Oldham – arguably the best GA in the division, but Becks wasn’t fazed at all.

Best Young Player – Annie James
It’s been great to see a number of local teenagers getting the chance of some court time during the Prem season, but I need to go down to Yorkshire for this award. Every time I’ve seen Grangetown face Leeds Athletic, this teenage shooter has showed composure and strength way beyond her years. Annie is as accurate as anyone I’ve seen in Prem and an outstanding prospect for the future Leeds Rhinos franchise.

Player Opposition Player
This is really tough because you might be basing your decision on less than an hour of an entire season, but I’ll narrow it down to two fine attacking players who were not only outstanding in their side’s respective wins on Teesside, but always seem to be a major influence in games against Grangetown: Emily Gulvin (Turnford) and Ally Thomas (Tameside).

And that’s just about that really. I have to admit that I had been considering stepping back from match reporting. It can be hard to actually enjoy a game when your constantly taking notes; the reports themselves usually take the best part of three hours and as the number of readers fell (I can see page views on my website), I began to wonder if it was really worthwhile given things I was having to deal with away from the club.

One thing this lockdown has done is to afford ample (perhaps too much) opportunity to reflect … on a lot of things – including just how much enjoyment I have had from being involved in netball. There are a number of things that Elaine and I want to do while time is still on our side and when we finally get the chance; but my life would be poorer without Grangetown and without netball, so all being well (and if required), I’ll be back on the sidelines next season and will look forward to see you all again very soon.

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GRANGETOWN VS ACADEMY

8/3/2020

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Grangetown played host to Academy in their final home fixture of the Prem 1 season, and the two sides – fourth and second respectively going into the game – served up an absolute classic.

The starting sevens were as follows:

Grangetown: GK Tuaine Keenan, GD Jenny Mrozik, WD Becks Thompson, C Vicky Rees, WA Ria Small, GA Niamh McCall, GS Abbie Le Brocq

Academy: GK Mami Emore, GD Rachel Mulloy, WD Kandis Nelson, C Beth Ecuyer-Dale, WA Darcy Griffin, GA Neala Brennan, GS Philippa Fleming

The sides traded the opening ten goals, before Niamh McCall’s superb long shot was followed up by another goal after Jenny Mrozik had claimed a rebound. However, the visitors then took complete control of proceedings with a run of eight consecutive goals.

The pace and movement of Beth Ecuyer-Dale and Darcy Griffin gave Academy a potent attacking threat and their dynamic partnership was supported by clinical finishing at one end of the court and excellent defence at the other. A run of four successive overthrown passes didn’t help Grangetown’s cause and Academy were deservedly eight goals in front when the first period ended.

Grangetown made changes for tactical and injury reasons, but Academy continued to dominate despite a number of excellent interventions by Tuaine Keenan and the newly-introduced Ireland goal keeper Katie Walton.

Niamh McCall cleverly allowed the ball to bounce right across the circle, before gathering under the net for a simple score, but moments later, Beth Ecuyer-Dyer’s incisive pass through centre court, set up Neala Brennan for another Academy goal.

Both Grangetown’s teenage attackers had court time during the second period, Maria Chambers scored once before an injury timeout saw her replaced by debutante Emily Burnett.

Mami Emore was having a strong game alongside her defensive partner Rachel Mulloy, and the goal keeper produced a fantastic play to parry and catch an attempted Grangetown pass when marking her attacker, but she was unable to prevent Emily Burnett opening her Grangetown account with a shot that found the net just as the half-time hooter sounded.

At 15-31, the result looked like a foregone conclusion, even more so when the influential Katie Walton was forced out of the game early in the third quarter; but once again, the squad’s fitness and resilience were very much in evidence as they started to reduce the 16-goal deficit. The fightback was typified by Becks Thompson, a superb athlete, who never gave the Academy playmaker’s any respite as the fightback grew in momentum.

At the opposite end of the court, Ash Neal injected real energy to the attack, Niamh was starting to gain the upper hand inside the circle; and as the game entered the final 15 minutes, Grangetown had reduced Academy’s advantage by seven goals.

Clearly, the visitors were still strong favourites to secure the win, but Grangetown somehow found the energy and belief to increase the pressure and having looked so assured earlier in the game, Academy started to make errors. Grangetown’s defensive unit was relentless, and the experienced mid-court pairing of Vicky Rees and Ria Small were inspired as they helped to set up chance after chance, which Ash and Niamh gratefully converted.

The noise from the crowd grew with every goal. The gap narrowed to five, to three, to one, and incredibly, Grangetown took the lead, with Niamh producing arguably the play of the game with a goal from a wonderfully-gathered one-handed rebound when both she and the ball looked certain to go out of play.

Academy rallied and claimed a crucial goal against the Grangetown centre pass to edge back in front, but with time running out, Grangetown levelled and had the centre pass…

The ball was fed to Ash, who found Niamh in the perfect position, but before the Strathclyde Sirens Super League shooter had the chance to win a quite extraordinary game, the final hooter sounded.

It was a remarkable finish, but the drama seemed to stun the supporters into silence and it was a good few seconds before the sound of applause filled the hall, as the players shook hands.

It was a game that Academy will feel they had won; but equally, had there been one or two more seconds on the clock, Grangetown would almost certainly have taken the points. What is for certain is that two fine sides produced a spectacle that will live long in the memory; the Academy players for an outstanding first 30 minutes and the Grangetown squad for as dramatic a comeback as you could wish to see.

Players of the match: Grangetown – Niamh McCall; Academy – Beth Ecuyer-Dale

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GRANGETOWN VS OLDHAM

9/2/2020

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Grangetown Netball Club played host to reigning Prem 1 champions and current league leaders Oldham this afternoon.

Last Sunday’s outstanding victory away to Hucclecote was Grangetown’s seventh success of the season; no club has been relegated from the top flight with that many wins, but whilst coach Gel Williams and her players will be battling for every available point, the squad has done a great job in consolidating their top-flight status after last year’s outstanding fourth-place finish.

For any side with top-five aspirations, the 18 Prem 1 fixtures will comprise some relatively comfortable wins, a number of intense contests, which will be decided by no more than two or three goals; and one or two fairly heavy defeats.

The game against Oldham fell into the last of those categories, as the visitors secured a 38-70 victory before heading off to contend with a particularly breezy M62.

Oldham were not at full strength, but their squad was full of talented athletes, including Laura Malcolm, who was part of Jess Thirlby’s England Roses side that took part in the recent Quad Series; and it was no surprise that Laura had a significant impact on the game.

And how exciting for one of Grangetown’s three teenage debutantes Lucy Whiting, that her first taste of Prem 1 netball should be directly opposite such a fine player.

Tamsin Canham and Maria Chambers both entered the fray in the final quarter, with goal shooter Maria showing admirable temperament and technique to net seven from eight attempts; and Cathy Hewitt’s appearance in the third period meant that no less than four youngsters had enjoyed court time against the strongest club in the country.

Grangetown played some really good netball in the opening 15 minutes, yet found themselves trailing 9-24 when the hooter sounded. Brie Grierson produced a stunning long pass to find Ash Neal in the circle; the subsequent goal levelling the score early in the quarter. At the opposite end of the court, Amy Clinton somehow plucked a great feed from Laura Malcolm out of the air with the home defenders seeming certain the ball was heading out of play.

Brie, Ash and Vicky Rees all combined to set up Abbie Le Brocq for a fine goal, but Oldham’s defensive pressure brought three held ball calls from the umpires in the opening ten minutes; and with Amy Clinton once again in imperious form under the net, the visitors quickly opened up a decisive lead.

Grangetown scored three goals without reply at the start of the second quarter. Jenny Mrozik and Becks Thompson combining well to claim possession for an important goal against the Oldham centre pass. After Brie cleverly drew the Oldham defenders, Ria Small fed Abbie to score; before the Grangetown defence secured another turnover. Unfortunately, the subsequent goal against the centre pass was immediately cancelled out following a penalty from the restart.

A flowing moved resulted in Ciara Crosbie netting for Oldham before an amazing passage of play saw possession change hands nine times before Amy Clinton’s long-range effort found the net.

One of the turnovers was claimed by Taylor Cullen, who made a difficult airborne interception look ridiculously easy. Taylor, who has signed for Strathclyde Sirens for the upcoming Super League campaign, is without doubt one of the finest athletes in the competition, and it was fascinating to see her playing opposite Grangetown’s Brie Grierson, an outstanding athlete in her own right.

15-37 to the good at half-time, Oldham quickly extended their lead after the interval, with the highlight being yet another Amy Clinton goal, this time from a brilliant defence-splitting pass from the Oldham wing attack Amelia Hall.

Lucy Whiting’s lovely bounce pass to Brie rounded off a fine Grangetown move, but Oldham were relentless and reached their half century with the home side well adrift on 19 goals.

Susie Armstrong produced a perfectly-timed leap to deflect a Grangetown shot as the game entered the final 15 minutes, and Taylor Cullen made yet another interception. Sandwiched between these two great pieces of defensive work was Maria Chambers’ first Prem 1 goal, which was followed by a total of six more, as the youngster showed admirable composure to finish off chances created by the ever-threatening Grierson-Neal combination.

Despite having been outplayed, it was to Grangetown’s credit that they produced a stirring finish to claim the bonus point for recording more than half of the victor’s score – there is always a chance that point could prove significant at the end of the season.

Choosing a Grangetown Player of the Match was no easy task. Collectively, the defence (Janny, Becks, Vicky and Ria) had work tirelessly to try and disrupt a free-flowing Oldham attack, but it was Maria Chambers, who earned the award for her impressive display in the closing period. For Oldham, there were fine performances right across the court, but it is hard not to single out Amy Clinton, whose shooting was almost faultless.

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GRANGETOWN VS LEEDS ATHLETIC

12/1/2020

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Photo: Sarah Raine

Grangetown Netball Club’s first home game of the new decade was a derby against their closest geographical rivals Leeds Athletic.

Leeds had recorded a fine home win over Hucclecote in their opening fixture of 2020, whilst Grangetown had suffered a heavy defeat against the high-flying New Cambell.

Those results left Grangetown in sixth position, one win and seven points ahead of the visitors, but as no team outside the top three had won more than five games, the table had become quite congested, and this fixture therefore represented a real opportunity to take a big step towards securing Prem 1 safety.

The recent Manchester Thunder signing Ash Neal and her sister Kyra Jones, who has a wealth of Super League and international experience, were both available for Grangetown. Tuaine Keenan and Brie Grierson were also playing in Super League last season, and their inclusion was another boost to an already strong-looking squad.

Kyra and Brie were named at centre and goal attack in a starting seven that was completed by Katie Walton (GK), Jenny Mrozik (GD), Vicky Rees (WD), Ria Small (WA) and Alice Currie (GS).

After the opening fifteen minutes, Grangetown led 14-13. Leeds had twice been three goals to the good and, despite plenty of pressure from the Grangetown defenders, they had looked assured in possession.

Emily Hollingworth and Francine Hall were both impressive in setting up scoring chances, and the shooting combination of Annie James and Maisie Bickerton took no time at all to find their range inside the circle.

Grangetown played well in parts and did well the recover the deficit, but their cause was hindered by a number of errors and missed shots; Leeds being more than capable of capitalising when the chances came.

The interplay between Kyra and Brie was the feature of the first quarter, and the most entertaining passage of play saw Kyra leap to secure a fine turnover from a Leeds centre pass. The ball found Brie, who clearly expected to be penalised for a replayed ball, but the whistle never came; Leeds claimed a rebound from the subsequent shot, only for Katie Walton to gather an overthrown pass and start the attack from which Alice Currie eventually netted.

Tuaine and Becks were introduced at goal defence and wing defence respectively, and both were involved in arguably the play of the match. Superb anticipation allowed Tuaine to turn over possession; she fed Becks, who threw a long pass down the right-hand side of the court; the ball was drilled across to Brie, whose airborne catch and finish were of the highest quality.

Ria and Kyra then combined to set up Brie for another fine goal as Grangetown began to take control of the game. The defensive trio of Katie, Tuaine and Becks were putting their opposite numbers under intense pressure and all three made crucial interventions.

Becks produced one outstanding running interception, and Tuaine parried a shot with a perfectly-timed jump before calmly gathering the rebound. The subsequent goal took Grangetown’s lead into double figures and when the half-time hooter sounded, Grangetown led 29-18.

Ash was brought on at goal attack for the third period, with Brie moving to wing attack, but it was the visitors who made the better start; quickly and impressively reducing the arrears by four goals.

There was one remarkable spell of play when Grangetown turned over possession, only to lose the ball, win it back and give it away again. A footwork call against Leeds then gifted Grangetown the ball, but a three-second penalty inside the circle handed back possession to the visitors … only for great defensive pressure to force a similar call against Leeds; and Alice finally found the net for a valuable goal against the centre pass.

The eleven-goal advantage was maintained into the final quarter. Hannah Raine played the last 15 minutes at centre, and her first involvement was a typically athletic running catch and pass to set up Alice under the net.

The outstanding moment of the closing minutes came when Kyra forced a three-second violation, then sent a bullet pass down court which was brilliantly collected one-handed by Brie, who then fed Alice to score.

Cathy Hewitt’s subsequent introduction ensured that the whole squad had spent time on court, and Grangetown pulled further away as the visitors began to tire. The final score was 58-39 to Grangetown, an important result that should give the squad a great deal of confidence going into the final third of the season.

There were a number of fine individual performances at both ends of the court, Katie, Tuaine and Brie all had tremendous games, but Kyra was simply outstanding throughout all four quarters and was my player of the match.

For their part, Leeds played some excellent netball, especially in the opening period, and never stopped battling even when the game was beyond them. Goal attack Annie James was the visitors’ player, just as she had been in the reverse fixture earlier in the season. She is still a teenager, but already one of the finest shooters in the division.

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GRANGETOWN VS TURNFORD

10/11/2019

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Grangetown played host to Turnford in round 7 of the Prem 1 season, with the home side looking to build on a run of three wins in four games that had lifted the club into fourth place in the division. For their part, Turnford had been struggling to climb away from the bottom end of the table, some decent home performances contrasting with a number of heavy away defeats.

The fixture was a repeat of last season’s round 7 clash, which was a thrilling encounter which Grangetown won 62-53; a scoreline that belied just how closely-match the teams actually were. The current Turnford squad looked every bit as strong, and an equally entertaining and hard-fought game was anticipated.

Grangetown were without Brie Grierson and Tuaine Keenan, both of whom had started last November’s clash; however, Kyra Jones, who had been so influential in the previous week’s outstanding win at Cumberland, was again able to line-up alongside her sister Ash Neal and make her home debut for the club.

The Turnford squad included Surrey Storm’s Emily Gulvin, who had been outstanding in last year’s fixture; and also Chiara Semple, the London Pulse shooter being renowned for her accuracy from any distance inside the circle.

The starting sevens were:

Grangetown: GK Katie Knox, GD Jenny Mrozik, WD Vicky Rees, C Kyra Jones, WA Ria Small, GA Ash Neal, GS Abbie le Brocq

Turnford: GK Stephanie Lewis-Smith, GD Ella Onyems, WD Ellie Rattu, C Kat Whittall, WA Emily Gulvin, GA Chiara Semple, GS Sienna Rushton

Perhaps not unexpectedly, the main feature of the opening quarter turned out to be Chiara Semple’s shooting, which ranged from the impressive to the sublime. Distance was no object to the New Zealand-born goal attack, and her 100% accuracy helped the visitors take a 14-17 lead into the break at the end of the first quarter.

Emily Gulvin was also involved in much of Turnford’s best work, with several superb feeds helping to set up opportunities for the shooters.

Grangetown were competing well right across the court, but a couple of handling errors and expensive misses under the net handed the early initiative to Turnford, and their more clinical finishing was effectively the difference between the sides at this stage.

The opening minutes of the second quarter were littered with turnovers, whether from penalties, mistakes or excellent individual interventions. Emily Gulvin’s movement and passing continued to cause problems, and Sienna Rushton at goal shooter was also making her mark on proceedings.

Kyra and Ash were at the heart of a Grangetown revival; Kyra’s defensive pressure and intuitive passing complementing her sister’s wonderful ability to create space and openings. Ash and Abbie le Brocq brought the scores level at 22-22, before a brilliant defensive interception from Ella Onyems turned over possession.

Ella soon claimed another turnover by collecting a rebound and Turnford took full advantage with ball in hand to take a four-goal advantage into half-time.

The Grangetown defensive trio of Katie Knox, Jenny Mrozik and Vicky Rees had all worked hard to secure interceptions or turnovers during the first 30 minutes, but the combination of Chiara Semple and Sienna Rushton in the circle, and Emily Gulvin and Kat Whittall through the court had been really effective, and Grangetown made a number of changes in order to try and overturn the deficit.

At the other end of the court, the attacking flair of Ria Small, Kyra and Ash was obvious, but was also being tested by a strong defensive unit, in which Ella Onyems was becoming increasingly influential.

Genevieve Slater joined Jenny Mrozik in defence, Becks Thompson came on at wing defence, Vicky Rees moved to centre with Kyra taking the wing attack bib, and Alice Currie replaced Abbie le Brocq at goal shooter.

Alice quickly found her range as the sides traded goals, but Grangetown twice lost possession from their own centre pass, once due to a breaking penalty, the other a passing error, and on both occasions, the new Turnford shooter Katarina Short converted the subsequent opportunities.

It will no doubt have been mentioned on numerous occasions, but at roughly 6’5”, Katarina’s surname is very much a misnomer; and with Chiara Semple still scoring seemingly effortlessly, Katarina’s strength and ability to catch long feeds under pressure proved another challenge for the home side.

Having given Oldham’s Kathryn Turner with a few uncomfortable moments a fortnight earlier, Becks Thompson again made an impact at wing defence; and it was fascinating to watch the contest between Becks and Emily Gulvin, two outstanding young athletes.

Turnford took a seven-goal lead into the final period, and Ella Onyems immediately turned over possession as Grangetown looked for a way back into the game. Grangetown kept fighting and threatening to claw back the deficit, but Ellie Rattu at goal defence made two interceptions from the centre pass that were as crucial as they were outstanding.

On three occasions, Grangetown almost snatched possession, but each time the ball fell straight into the visitors’ hands. Gen Slater was particularly unlucky as she jumped superbly to tip away a shot from Chiara Semple, only for the ricochet to hand the shooter a second chance to convert.

Still Grangetown kept pressing and with time running out, all seven players had played a part in reducing the lead to just two goals, and they had forced a vital turnover after a nervous-looking Turnford feed went out of court...

A quick restart was followed by a long, speculative pass down the court, but the ball evaded the Grangetown shooters. However, even if the ball had been taken and the goal scored, there would not have been time for the home side to try and equalise as the hooter sounded; the final scoreline reading 59-61 to Turnford.

It was a thrilling finish but also a frustrating result, as Grangetown had worked extremely hard to turn over plenty of possession throughout the four quarters. The commitment and determination were first class, but unfortunately, on too many occasions, Grangetown were unable to capitalise on their good work; and it would be difficult to deny that Turnford deserved their success.

The contributions of Emily Gulvin and Chiara Semple have been highlighted, but the overall Player of the Match had to be Ella Onyems for her wonderful athleticism, strength and anticipation at the heart of the visitor’s defence.

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OLDHAM VS GRANGETOWN

28/10/2019

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On the face of it, Oldham’s 77-55 home success over Grangetown looks like just another regulation victory for the reigning Prem 1 champions, but the visitors showed plenty of determination and no little skill against the finest side in the country.

The hosts were 17 goals clear at half time, so it was very much to Grangetown’s credit that the deficit increased by only five goals over the subsequent 30 minutes.

The Oldham defence, marshalled by Kerry Almond, was tough and uncompromising; Taylor Cullen at wing defence possesses lightning pace and great anticipation; transition through the court was quick, incisive and at times thrilling to watch, with Maria McAndrew at the heart of so many flowing moves; and the attacking pairing of Kathryn Turner and Amy Clinton were simply superb and posed the sternest of tests for Grangetown’s defensive duo of Jenny Mrozik and Becks Thompson.

Oldham’s movement was tremendous; their squad has awareness, understanding, accuracy and pace in abundance; yet Grangetown refused to crumble when lesser teams could have been overwhelmed by such incessant pressure.

Grangetown were without the services of Katie Knox and Genevieve Slater, both of whom had been on international duty with Ireland at the Nations Cup in Singapore, as well as Tuaine Keenan; but Jenny and Becks did a sterling job in the defensive circle. Jenny’s athleticism and competitive spirit has been a feature of the squad for many years, but on only her second outing for the club, Becks had a really strong game (particularly at goal defence in the first three quarters) and was my choice as Grangetown’s Player of the Match.

In what was at times quite a physical encounter, Becks never backed down from the challenges posed by marking a player as talented as Kathryn Turner; and she looks to be a tremendous addition to the Grangetown squad.

The fixture was also memorable as it marked the first time in almost a decade that Ash Neal and her sister Kyra Jones had played on the same side. Over the recent years, the siblings had been regular Super League rivals, but when Kyra entered the fray as Grangetown centre at the start of the second quarter, their connection was immediately apparent and there were some sublime passages of attacking play involving Ash, Kyra and the ever-impressive Brie Grierson.

One of the main differences between the sides was the shooting accuracy, with Oldham taking full advantage of almost every opportunity. At times, Kathryn and Amy simply never looked like missing; confidence typified by Amy converting left-handed without even setting the shot on a number of occasions.

Oldham remain the standard against which other Prem 1 clubs are judged, a well-drilled, high-class outfit; but for Grangetown, this was another hugely encouraging afternoon. International commitments have meant that it has not been possible to send a full-strength squad out onto court so far this season, yet having already won two games and with performances continuing to improve, prospects for the remainder of the season certainly look very bright indeed.

Kyra and Ash

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GRANGETOWN VS HUCCLECOTE

13/10/2019

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photo by Andrew Taylor

Grangetown played host to Hucclecote in round 4 of the Prem 1 season. It was Grangetown’s third home fixture and an opportunity to consolidate the previous week’s success away to Leeds Athletic with a first home victory.

The sides had last met in 2017/18 when Hucclecote emerged victorious in the corresponding Prem 2 encounter, but it was Grangetown that ended the season as champions. Despite being arguably the best side in the division, Hucclecote missed out on promotion, a situation that was remedied in emphatic style in 2018/19 as the Gloucestershire side dominated the division and secured promotion and the championship with games to spare.

They had carried that form into the new season, with a notable opening-day win away to New Cambell and a narrow defeat against the all-conquering Oldham squad.

This fixture represented a new challenge for Hucclecote as they were without Paige Reed and Ella Powell-Davies, both of whom had been in action in the Fast 5 tournament the previous day. Also missing was Sam Cook, not only one of the finest defenders in the country but, as a member of the Severn Stars squad, one of the outstanding players in last season’s Super League.

The Fast 5 tournament also meant that Tuaine Keenan was unavailable for Grangetown, but Manchester Thunder’s Ash Neal was able to take her place in the starting seven. The Grangetown bench was strengthened by the return of Niamh McCall, the Scottish international having been named player of the tournament in the recent Netball Europe under 21 championships.

Grangetown: GK Katie Knox, GD Genevieve Slater, WD Vicky Rees, C Ria Small, WA Brie Grierson, GA Ash Neal, GS Abbie le Brocq, Bench (used) Niamh McCall

The game got off to a scrappy start with both sides losing possession twice before Hucclecote eventually opened the scoring. Abbie Le Brocq’s equaliser was the first of seven consecutive goals for Grangetown.

Vicky Rees forced an error, Genevieve Slater collected the ball, but possession was turned over down the court. Katie Knox interrupted the visitors’ attack and as the ball was heading out of play, the Ireland goal keeper did superbly well to flick the ball back into the arms of Genevieve, her international defensive partner. Ash Neal converted the subsequent opportunity.

Brie Grierson’s lob to Ash consolidated the goal against the centre pass before excellent pressure from the home defence forced a number of long lateral passes and an eventual error. Abbie netted twice, Ash converted Ria Small’s cross-court pass, and the next goal extended the lead to 7-1.

Sarah Adams and Harriet Sanderson combined to set up Rosie Allison, and an attacking penalty against Grangetown enabled the visitors to further reduce the deficit. However, pressure from Brie forced a three-second violation and Ash took the lead back to six.

Rosie did well to gather and convert a rebound, but Hucclecote were forced into an early change with Harriet Sanderson leaving the court, Shaunagh Craig moving from goal attack to goal defence and Jane Taylor coming on to partner Rosie.

Ash’s low bounce pass to Ria saw the centre loop the ball over the defence to set up Abbie for the score; and neat interplay between Bria and Ria allowed Ash to find the net. Hucclecote replied when Rosie did well to collect Jane’s bullet pass and the shooter netted again after three quick turnovers. Shona O’Dwyer fed Rosie to narrow the gap to three but Ash extended the lead after her attempted bounce pass one-two rebounded off Sarah Adams right back into the grateful arms of the Australian.

Jane scored from distance, but Abbie scored the final goal of an entertaining quarter when Ash collected the rebound from her own long—range shot and quickly fed her partner under the net.

Jane and Rosie combined well to take advantage of a lucky rebound, but there was nothing fortunate about Hucclecote’s next goal, Jane calmly scoring from distance after Shaunagh’s tremendous interception.

Katie Knox was penalised twice when she looked to have secured possession from two missed shots. Rosie netted from the penalty and only two goals separated the sides.

Clare Jones produced a tremendous piece of skill to get a hand to a Grangetown pass and flick the ball into play; unfortunately for the visitors, the ball flew straight to Brie who was bundled over, and Ash scored from the resulting penalty.

Grangetown benefited from more good fortune when a misplaced pass deflected off Clare straight into Ash’s safe hands, but Clare was soon back in the action, collecting a bouncing ball at pace to claim possession as the Grangetown players waited in vain for the umpire’s whistle. Her efforts were rewarded when Jane scored to again narrow the gap to just two goals.

The next four goals were shared with Rosie converting after a ricochet off a defender’s face had fallen perfectly for the shooter. Rosie then took advantage of another turnover, but good work from the Grangetown defence resulted in a replayed ball call. Abbie managed to tap a missed shot back into play; Ash grabbed the ball, and flicked it back to her partner for the score.

The goals were coming thick and fast Shona’s neat underarm feed set up Jane to score; and Jane then gave a lovely no-look pass, which Rosie converted. There were then misses at both ends before Hucclecote brought the scores level.

However, there was just time for Ash to score the two quick goals that were the difference between the sides as the half-time hooter sounded.

Some of Grangetown’s play had been of the highest quality, but Hucclecote never stopped working to force errors and turnovers and with both shooters being both consistent and confident, the result was very much in the balance.

Grangetown made a change during the interval, with Niamh McCall being introduced at goal attack, and Ash moving to goal shooter to replace Abbie.

Niamh was straight into the action with two goals, the second a high looping effort to round off a flowing move involving Ash and Ria.

The partnership between Ash and Niamh seemed to gel quickly and the Scottish international netted again with a beautifully-judged long-range effort.

Hucclecote replied after Shona’s clever movement round the back of the post gave her the chance to feed Jane, whose shot bobbled, but counted. Ash restored Grangetown’s six-goal lead, but the visitors replied and Chloe Cubello then made a crucial interception. Sarah picked out an unmarked Rosie to score, before Jane netted from distance and suddenly only three goals separated the sides.

Just as quickly as momentum seemed to be shifting towards the visitors, it was Grangetown who suddenly took control of the game as they extended their lead to eight. Niamh netted at the second attempt after defensive pressure had forced a held ball penalty; Niamh than passed the ball inside from the left, raced across the circle to gather the feed and finished off a fine move with a great finish.

An offside call against the Hucclecote defence handed possession back to Grangetown. Ash scored and Niamh then netted twice, the second from Brie’s excellent feed.

The home defence piled on the pressure, but Hucclecote remained calm and eventually created a chance for Jane, which she converted with a minimum of fuss.

Vicky got a hand to a low pass; the ball being collected by Katie. A quick transition saw a lovely ball from Niamh find Ash unmarked under the net; the two attackers exchanging a “low-five” after the goal was scored.

Niamh’s movement then attracted the attention of both defenders, allowing Brie to loop the ball over the top for Ash to take Grangetown’s advantage into double figures.

Again though, just when it looked like the home side were in control, so Hucclecote fought their way back into the game. The ten-goal gap became five and it was only Ash’s last-gasp goal that kept Grangetown six goals to the good as the game entered the final 15 minutes.

Niamh cleverly allowed a bouncing ball to bobble towards the posts before gathering to convert the scoring chance, but Jane replied superbly from distance despite barely setting herself for the shot.

Brie fed a quick ball, ran across court to collect the return pass, and immediately fed Niamh who was unerring from distance. Brie was again at the centre of the action as she managed to athletically keep the ball in play; Niamh dived forward to claim possession and when the ball reached the circle, the young Scot was on hand to find the net.

Katie’s fine game in defence continued as she forced another error and Ash’s next two goals gave the home side a ten-goal lead. Hucclecote replied when Sarah moved left and cleverly passed right to create a scoring opportunity, but when Shona and Jane combined nicely for Rosie to score, it looked likely to be little more than late consolation.

Nothing could have been further from the truth though, as Hucclecote increased the tempo to score five unanswered goals. Niamh’s successful conversion should have calmed any nerves, but the visitors simply refused to be denied and the gap narrowed to four, three and then two goals.

From being in total command, Grangetown were hanging on, but the hooter sounded just as Hucclecote scored the goal that brought the scores to 58-57.

It was hard to know what to make of the final quarter, and those closing minutes in particular. At times, Grangetown produced some sublime attacking netball, and some intense defence, with Katie Knox being my player of the match for a tremendous performance at goal keeper (the official award was given to Niamh McCall). However, Hucclecote’s spirit and determination were more than matched by their skill and athleticism at the games most decisive moments – goal attack Jane Taylor (below) in particular having a fine game.

For Grangetown it was another improvement on their performances so far this season. There are areas that will doubtless be reviewed and addressed, but it is hard to see Hucclecote losing many games this season, and to have played well enough to secure the five competition points makes this a result of real significance.

photo by Andrew Taylor

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LEEDS ATHLETIC VS GRANGETOWN

6/10/2019

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Grangetown’s first away fixture of the new Prem 1 season was the relatively short journey to their closest geographical rivals, Leeds Athletic.

Leeds had defeated Grangetown in the final fixture of the 2018/19 campaign, but after two games of the current season, both sides were still looking for their first win.

Although Grangetown were without Ireland defender Genevieve Slater, Head Coach Gel Williams was able to name a strong squad, which included all three players who appeared in the 2019 Super League, with Tuaine Keenan making her seasonal bow alongside Ash Neal and Brie Grierson.

Grangtown: GK Tuaine Keenan, GD Jenny Mrozik, WD Vicky Rees, C Ria Small, WA Brie Grierson, GA Ash Neal, GS Abbie le Brocq

Grangetown got off to a bright start, opening an early three-goal lead, before turning over possession soon after captain Vicky Rees had grabbed a fumbled Leeds pass. Francine Hall’s feed was nearly intercepted, but Annie James converted for the home side’s first goal.

Brie Grierson drilled a pass to Ash, and from the left of the post, the Australian-born goal attack found the net. Leeds then scored the next three goals, with Lydia Walker’s incisive pass allowing Annie to cancel out the one goal against a centre pass.

The next 12 goals were shared, with both sides guilty of a number of unenforced errors. Abbie le Brocq’s goal brought an end to a scrappy passage of play, before the Leeds attacking quartet combined well to set up another goal.

Abbie then parried and collected a hard, high pass from her shooting partner; she gave the ball to Ria Small on the left edge of the circle, who then fed Ash to score. Leeds were awarded possession despite the ball going out of court off one of their own players, and two turnovers and a penalty later, Leeds again levelled the scores.

From a backline restart, Ash cleverly swung her right arm around the back of the post to set up Abbie. Jenny Mrozik and Tuaine Keenan then combined for a crucial turnover; Vicky and Ria created a straightforward chance for Ash, and Vicky was involved again as she fed Brie who duly set up Abbie to consolidate the turnover.

Another long shot from Annie reduced the deficit to two and the first period ended with Grangetown leading 12-14.

Leeds had the better of the early exchanges in the second quarter, Lydia intercepting a telegraphed pass to create the equalising goal, and Maisie Bickerton edged the hosts in front, having been left free under the post when Tuaine narrowly failed with an attempted interception.

Ria then did really well to chase a misplaced pass and flick a speculative ball back into the circle, which was collected and converted by the Grangetown attack. Ash then produced a delightful pump-fake pass to unlock the Leeds defence, but the home side responded with a fine move of their own, a long ball through centre court finding Maisie completely unmarked under the post.

Abbie fed Ash after superbly catching a pass under intense pressure, and Abbie’s next shot gave Grangetown a two-goal advantage. Annie’s shooting, especially from distance, was becoming a real feature of the game, and another long shot was calmly converted; but quick goals from the visitors – including one from a great interception from Ash - extended the lead to six.

A rare miss from Annie was regathered by Grangetown, but a footwork call handed back possession to Leeds, and the goal attack was immediately back on target. Grangetown were penalised from the centre pass, with Francine Hall’s pass setting up Maisie for the goal.

Ria showed good strength to claim a loose ball on the edge of the circle, but Ash’s goal was cancelled out by another long-range effort from Annie.

As the clock ticked towards half time, Grangetown scored three more goals, the second of which came after another superb interception from Vicky; and Abbie’s fine one-handed grab allowed the shooter to net the final goal of the period.

Right from the restart, Alice Smith made an interception and Laura Kelly picked off another Grangetown pass, but only the first possession resulted in a Leeds goal. Some wayward Grangetown passing saw Leeds narrow the gap, and Alice’s second interception, a beautifully-read flying take, was arguably the game’s best piece of individual skill.

Francine’s no-look pass set up another opportunity and the momentum certainly seemed to be swinging the way of the home side. Jenny was unfortunate when a dropped Leeds pass touched her leg on the way out of court; the home side netting from the restart.

Jenny’s next involvement was to secure possession for her side; Grangetown made their way down court, but seemed to have lost the ball over the back line. Somewhat fortuitously, the decision went Grangetown’s way and the resulting goal was much-needed. Abbie netted from the Grangetown centre pass, before great Grangetown defence forced a poor pass and an easy turnover; and Abbie was able to restore the six-goal lead.

Once again though, Leeds rallied and halved the margin with Annie continuing to score from almost any distance. Francine athletically retrieved a ball that looks certain top bounce out of play and Annie netted as the hooter sounded to leave the score at 40-42 with just 15 minutes remaining.

Grangetown had made no changes during the game, and made the ideal start to the final period with two quick goals. Leeds replied after a footwork call against the visitors, and Lydia then set up Maisie with a great feed into the circle.

The Grangetown shooters kept calm under increasing pressure, and Brie’s interception resulted in Ash netting from distance. Grangetown then missed a simple chance to further extend the lead, and although a three-second violation handed the ball back to the visitors, another close-range effort was missed.

Ash’s floated shot seemed to settle the side. Vicky then claimed another crucial interception; the resulting goal widened the gap to six and effectively settled the result.

Leeds certainly never stopped fighting and forced two quick turnovers, but only converted on one occasion and Grangetown saved one of their best moves until the closing moments when Brie delivered a superb inside pass for Ash to set up Abbie for the score.

The hooter sounded with Grangetown recording a hard-fought but deserved 51-57 success. Vicky Rees had a fine game at wing defence and was my choice for Grangetown’s player of the match, but arguably the best performance came from the Leeds goal attack, Annie James, whose composure and shooting were tremendous throughout.

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In conversation with ... Cathy Hewitt

4/10/2019

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The first in-depth Grangetown Prem player interview of the new season features the youngest regular member of the squad, Cathy Hewitt.

Cathy made a number of appearances from the bench during Grangetown’s first year in the top division and, aged just 17, she has recently earned a place in the Leeds Rhinos U19 Elite Academy.

Being 17 also means she is able to start learning to drive, and we met up shortly after a lesson that appeared to have been ever-so-slightly stressful…

I made a mental note to avoid any mention of closed junctions, before asking Cathy about when her interest in netball began. “I first started playing when I was seven. We played netball at school and then Steph [Rule] started running this club on a Sunday morning; I joined the club and it was Steph who recommended Grangetown … and I’ve been here ever since!”

Cathy still plays netball at school [Teesside High School in Stockton] - actually she does a bit more than just playing netball: “I’m under 19 netball captain at school, I’m also Sports Captain, and I coach the year 7, 8 and 9 teams as well as our senior team.”

Clearly Cathy’s ability on the netball court has been apparent from an early age, but has that meant playing in higher age groups to allow her game to develop? “When I was younger, I just played with my age group, but when I was about 11, I remember having my first game for the under 19s. I also played in the under 14 national finals in Newcastle when I was 11; and I did the same the year after as well. When I was 13, I was picked for the under 16 national squad, but didn’t play; I was involved for the next two years though.”

So how hard was the transition from being one of the outstanding players in an age group, to one of the youngest players in an older squad where even a couple of years can make a big difference to strength, physical development and on-court experience?

“Yes, at first it’s quite hard to adapt,” Cathy admitted. “Skills like passing and catching are adaptable, but then you have to get used to the physicality and speed of the game. You have to learn to react quicker, and if you have to take a few more knocks, well that’s just part of the game. You work hard, you get stronger and quicker, and obviously the court experience is so important.”

And what about confidence? It’s not usually an issue when you’re starting out, but when you’re developing and improving so quickly, does there come a point when nerves or even doubt creep in?

“I never used to get nervous before games, even at national finals I was always fine; but yes it has changed as I’ve got a bit older. The importance of games changes though; a Saturday morning friendly is one thing, but when you’re playing Prem or for Leeds Rhinos, it’s a totally different kind of pressure; especially if you’re in one of the shooting positions where it’s really obvious if you’re not doing well. You’ve just got to take each game as it comes really.”

Oh no, you’ve just thrown in a cliché!

Cathy chuckled: “I love a little cliché!”

The importance of the mental aspect of sport cannot be overstated; and often, mental strength or the ability to perform to your best under the most intense pressure is what separates a fine athlete from an elite athlete…

“I remember at the under 14 national finals, we were going goal for goal with this team, I got the ball under the net and I suddenly thought ‘what if I miss this; it’s really important that I don’t miss’; and I missed…

“I can recall one of the coaches telling me a quote,” Cathy continued, “I think it was from Michael Jordan, about it not mattering how many shots you’ve missed, so long as you have the confidence to take the next one. The shot might be important, but it’s just a shot and you have to learn to try and put those negative thoughts out of your mind. Breathing is really important as is being able to just focus on the job in hand and not the consequences.”

But is that element of psychology something you’ve been coached, or something that you’ve had to deal with yourself?

“I think it’s probably a bit of both. Coaches will give you advice about how best to relax, but I’ve always had great support from my Dad. He’s a proper ‘netball Dad’, he would help me with my shooting technique when I was younger, and now he’ll talk to be about how to deal with pressure, how to take the context out of the situation, and just do what you’ve done so many times before.”

Moving on to Leeds Rhinos, you’ve been involved with the club for a while, and these are exciting times in West Yorkshire with a Super League franchise under Dan Ryan coming in 2021.

“Definitely. I was in the under 17 Elite Academy last season, and I always wanted to trial for the under19s this year; so initially I had to go for some screening at York University, then we had to go through another two weeks or so of screening to decide who would go into the Elite Academy and who would join the Futures Academy. There are around 20 players in the Elite squad, I think we play most of the Super League Academy sides over the next few months, and there’s a big NPL (Netball Performance League) tournament next summer.

“My head coach is Emily Perry, and her assistant is Jan Hemsley. I haven’t actually met Dan Ryan yet, but he’s awesome, and I definitely want to try and be a part of the Super League franchise. I am ambitious; I want to play Super League, I want to play Prem, and the dream is always to play for England isn’t it?! The Roses have achieved so much and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”

With experience at both the Rhinos and Grangetown, who does Cathy rate as the toughest players she’s come up against on court?

“I think that was last season’s Prem game against Oldham. I can remember when we were warming up, I looked down the court and thought ‘I’ve seen her on the TV’, or ‘she’s played for the Roses’, and then the realisation sets in that we’re actually playing them. Laura Malcolm or Kerry Almond would be two of the best I’ve faced so far… they’re just insanely good.”

Staying with Prem, your preferred position is goal attack. Grangetown are fortunate to have players like Ash [Neal] and Brie [Grierson] who are both top-class athletes. There must be some element of frustration if you don’t get court time; but also it must be great to have the chance to be around players of that ability.”

Cathy’s response was telling and revealed a lot about the teenager’s maturity and attitude: “If I didn’t find it frustrating or if I wasn’t bothered about not being on court; then I wouldn’t be able to achieve the right level of performance when the chances come; and that wouldn’t be right for me or for the team.

“Of course, there’s always a desire to be on court, but I do find it amazing watching Ash, Brie, Tuaine [Keenan], Genevieve [Slater], Billy [Katie Knox], Vicky [Rees], Ria [Small] and Jenny [Mrozik] all of these great players. I learn so much watching their court craft, their movement, the passes they make. When they’re on the bench between quarters talking about what they’re going to change or do better in the next 15 minutes, or what they’ve done well, I just pick up on everything, absorb it all, and try and bring new things into my game – like Ash’s no-look pass; that’s something I desperately want to be able to do!”

Cathy is in her final year at school, studying English Literature, History and Sport, all of which means that following the pressure of ‘A’ level exams, there will be the move into further education (the self-confessed “book nerd” is hoping to do a degree in English Literature). Will her association with the Rhinos have some bearing on her choice of university?

“Yes, I think so. The Universities I’m considering at the moment are all around the Yorkshire area: Leeds, Sheffield, York, York St John, and Manchester as well. It would make it much easier to get to training, and less time driving home however many nights a week.”

And fewer closed junctions…

Yes I know I ignored my mental note.

“Honestly Richard, coming to the junction, stopping, getting into first gear and checking both ways ... it’s just too much!

“But yeah, I’d want to be close to Leeds; I’d still like to be able to come up and play Prem at Grangetown too…”

Cathy rates Tamsin Greenway as one of her favourite all-time players: “For me, she’s one of the best wing attack/goal attacks that has ever played the game. Her court craft and vision are incredible. I was lucky enough to be coached by her at the Yorkshire Coaching Conference and it was brilliant; there was a reason for everything she said, and everything she said made so much sense.

“I really like Serena Guthrie too. She’s got incredible dedication and athleticism - and she’s as hard as nails as well. If we’re sticking to the Roses, there’s Natalie Haythornthwaite too; she’s awesome. But if we’re going international, I think I’d say Maria Folau. Her shooting is unbelievable. She makes it look effortless – she’ll shoot a three-pointer from outside the circle in Fast-5 as if it was the easiest thing in the world.”

That’s another interesting point though; Maria Folau is probably 6’2”, a “big lass” in Cathy’s words; but Cathy is never going to be 6’2”…

“No, that’s for sure!” she laughed. “I suppose there are positives and negatives to being fairly small. The positives are speed, bounce passes that tall defenders probably aren’t going to be able to reach, and if I run quickly, they won’t be able to see me over their shoulder!

“On the other hand, I’m never going to be able to hold for an over-ball … it just won’t happen; but you’ve just got to play to your skills, your strengths, and make it as hard as you can for whoever is marking you.”

Cathy then explained she’s hoping to develop as a wing attack in addition to her abilities in the goal attack role. I was interested to know whether that would give Cathy some sense of freedom, as she would not have the pressure associated with the shooting positions.

“There’s still pressure at wing attack; it’s just a different kind of pressure to the shooters. There’s pressure to get the centre pass, to feed the shooters and be an option; but so long as I’m helping my team and hopefully making a difference on court, I wouldn’t mind what position I was playing.”

I wanted to know if Cathy played any other sports, but I’d also heard she was quite musical…

“I play the saxophone, and I’ve got a grade 8 in singing as well.”

By now I was feeling increasingly inadequate. Is there anything Cathy isn’t good at?

“Driving! And Physics. I only got a ‘B’”

For the record I got an ‘A’ in Physics … some semblance of adequacy duly restored!

“As far as sports go, at school I always had the need to be in every single team: hockey, athletics, rounders, and all that jazz; but I’m focussing on netball now, because I know that’s what I have to do if I want to become a performance athlete.”

So when you put on that Roses dress for the first time, do I get free tickets..?

“Of course you do!”

And so with Cathy officially six minutes late for training that’s where our conversation ended.

There will be countless 17 year-old netballers aiming to reach the top of the sport, and so many diverse factors that will eventually determine the few who will achieve senior international honours. However, what struck me about Cathy is that despite clearly being gifted at pretty much everything she does, be it academic, sporting or musical, there is no trace of arrogance at all.

She is an outgoing, natural and engaging young woman, with a quiet assurance and confidence in her ability as a netballer; and is clearly both motivated and determined to work hard to become the best she can possibly be.

Cathy also has the awareness and maturity to recognise that she can learn from every game (whether playing or watching), every training session, and every conversation with her peers … frankly, taking everything into account, it’s difficult not to be anything other than hugely impressed.

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GRANGETOWN VS NEW CAMBELL

29/9/2019

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Grangetown hosted New Cambell in their second game – and second home fixture – of the new Prem 1 campaign.

The visitors had been magnificent in last season’s corresponding encounter, and have arguably been the best side to have visited the north east since Grangetown began competing at a national level.

For this game however, both clubs were affected by international call-ups for the Netball Europe Open Championships which were taking place in Northern Ireland. Four of Grangetown’s squad were representing the Republic of Ireland, including regular defensive pairing Genevieve Slater and Katie Walton, who was playing for the first time under her married name of Knox. New Cambell were without Northern Ireland’s Michelle Drayne as well as teenage defender Funmi Fadoju who was making her full England debut – hopefully the start of a long and successful international career for this outstanding young athlete.

With a depleted defence, Jenny Mrozik played despite struggling with a knee injury and Rebecca Thompson made her Grangetown debut at goal defence. Grangetown vice-captain Ria Small took her place in the starting seven after scans revealed a cheekbone injury sustained the previous week was not a fracture as had been first feared; and Brie Grierson’s availability was a major boost to Grangetown’s attacking potential.

Both sides had suffered round 1 losses, New Cambell to newly-promoted Hucclecote and Grangetown to Tameside, so even at this early stage of the season, the game represented an important opportunity to register that crucial first win.

In a fast-paced opening, the two sides traded four goals before Paige McCalla’s long shot was followed by a wayward Grangetown centre pass, from which Rochelle Rhodes netted after taking a good catch under pressure. The visitors then converted from their next restart to take an early three-goal lead.

Ash Neal then found her attacking partner Abbie Le Brocq unmarked for the score, only for Paige and Rochelle to almost replicate the move at the opposite end of the court.

The Grangetown attacking trio of Abbie, Ash and Brie then combined superbly to reduce the arrears, and when New Cambell were penalised for delaying their centre pass, Brie’s looped pass was converted by Ash. Abbie levelled the scores before Grangetown turned over possession and an assured long-range effort from Abbie edged the home side in front for the first time.

Paige and Rochelle then combined well to narrow the gap and when Grangetown lost possession, Rochelle collected a rebound to being parity to proceedings.

8-8 became 12-12 with Vicky Rees producing a fine turnover and Abbie superbly gathering a bullet pass from Brie to score. Lovely interplay between Paige and Ellie Gibbons saw the wing attack feed Rochelle to edge the visitors in front.

Ash levelled, before Ellie delivered another fine pass to set up her shooter. At the other end of the court, Lindsay Keable nudged the ball out of play, but despite intense pressure from both visiting defenders, Abbie did well to claim the ball and find the net.

Jenny Mrozik picked off a speculative pass, and Ria Small bounced the ball to Ash whose successful shot rounded off a fine move.

Ellie’s neat turn saw her spin past her marker to set up New Cambell’s next goal, but a wayward pass then hit the wing attack in the back to give Grangetown possession. Abbie appeared to have the ball knocked out of her hand when attempting a shot, but the umpire ruled against the home side.

New Cambell then made a rare handling error to hand possession back to Grangetowm. Ash scored, but great strength under pressure by Rochelle was rewarded by the goal that separated the sides at the end of a pulsating opening quarter.

Grangetown immediately put the visitors under pressure, but New Cambell were comfortable in possession and were able to extend their lead to four goals before Ash’s delayed pass fooled both defenders and Abbie opened Grangetown’s account.

Lindsay then got a hand to a pass and earned possession as the ball touched Abbie on the way out of court. An overthrown pass bobbled into the grateful hands of Grangetown captain Vicky Rees, but the subsequent shot was missed, Lindsay collected the rebound and, after a quick transition down the court, Rochelle continued her impressive form under the net.

New Cambell’s lead fluctuated between three and four goals, but the best move did not actually result in a goal. Centre Beth Dix, who made her Super League debut for Wasps in March, exchanged passes with three separate team mates before feeding into the circle when the opening appeared. Unfortunately, an attacking contact call denied New Cambell the goal that Beth’s skill deserved, but after Ash had netted for Grangetown, Beth again showed excellent composure to deal with more intense defensive pressure and deliver a telling ball for another goal.

Paige then made a crucial contribution in mid-court, managing to sneak in front of Vicky to steal possession. The resulting goal was cancelled out by Abbie’s lovely disguised pass to Ash, and Vicky then completed another turnover from which Ash scored.

Ash ‘s next goal narrowed the gap to just one, but New Cambell doubled their advantage with a well-taken goal, although Jenny was unfortunate not to claim possession with a spectacular attempted flying interception.

Beth read a pass from her opposite number, but Ellie’s pass rebounded off the post and back to Grangetown. Abbie reduced the arrears and the next two goals were shared; but Grangetown missed an opportunity to level the scores and the half-time hooter sounded with New Cambell 30-31 to the good.

It had been an excellent half, played at a furious pace, with both sides showing attacking flair and great defensive intensity.

Abbie scored at the start of the third quarter, but as well as scoring from their next three centre passes, Linday and Steph Collard both secured turnovers and in a matter of moments, New Cambell were five goals in front. Ash bounced a pass across court to Ria and rushed into the circle to collect the return feed from her centre and score.

Grangetown continued to battle, but struggled to make inroads into the visitors’ lead. Brie was having a fine game at wing attack and she set up a number of chances, but after Ria’s interception allowed Ash to score, Lindsay got a touch to a pass and managed a backhand flick to a team mate to ensure the goal against the centre pass was immediately cancelled out.

At 35-43, New Cambell were very much in charge, but by the end of the period, the lead had been halved as Grangetown rallied once again. Rebecca Thompson, who was having a solid debut, was unlucky to be penalised as Ellie (now at goal attack) missed a lay-up shot, and when Abbie netted at the second attempt, the scoreboard read 42-46 as the hooter brought the quarter to a close.

Grangetown made a great start to the final period, with Rebecca and Vicky effecting a turnover and Ash’s movement attracting the attention of both defenders, which allowed Ria to loop the ball to an unmarked Abbie.

The lead was down to one after Abbie scored again, but Beth’s feed was well-collected by Rochelle who made no mistake with her shot. Ash netted from distance before Jenny claimed possession for the home side. Sensational play from Brie and Ash saw the new Manchester Thunder signing level the scores.

The momentum seemed to be all with Grangetown, but their next attack came to an abrupt end when Ash was penalised for what sounded like obstruction, despite no other player being close to her. It was a decision that baffled players and spectators alike, but New Cambell took full advantage before a well-disguised feed from Ellie to Rochelle gave the visitors a two-goal cushion.

Grangetown managed to secure possession only to be penalised by a “not set” call on the backline. The resulting goal was quickly cancelled out and Grangetown again got to within one goal; but hard as they fought, the hosts were unable to draw level and with time starting to run out, New Cambell stayed strong, punished every error and by full time, the visitors ran out winners 56-63.

It had been a thoroughly entertaining game, and although Grangetown’s performance was much-improved from their opening fixture, the final result was still disappointing. For New Cambell, they showed composure at the most crucial moments and deserved the win; but the final margin of seven goals belies how close a match this actually was.

Brie Grierson was Grangetown’s best performer on the day, but the player of the match was undoubtedly New Cambell’s Beth Dix, whose movement and passing were of the highest quality.

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