Birmingham shone with 66-54 in their clash against Manchester.
Never falling behind in the game, the Lion’s lead only increased as the game progressed. It just seemed too much for Manchester, but they refused to give up. But Birmingham were in the mood for winning, and when you’re up against a team like that who had the full support from the home crowd, Manchester didn’t really have a chance.
Whilst there were individual stars roaring with the team, the first thing to say about this game was the fantastic team performance. From the onset, the communication on the pitch and with the bench immediately placed Birmingham firmly ahead of their rivals. If they can keep that chemistry going all season, there will certainly be more success to follow.
UoB’s goal attack had an amazing game and put on a real show for the crowd. She ran so hard that she had to be substituted for the final quarter, but she’d already won the game for Birmingham. Whenever the ball got to the final third, her pack looked for her.
At the other end of the court it was goal defence causing havoc, pulling off some of the best blocks I’ve seen in my (admittedly limited time) watching netball. She was almost defiantly responsible for stopping Manchester scoring over ten times, and when the margin of victory was around that figure, one cannot ignore her impact.
Praise must go to the centre, too, who kept play ticking over nicely. She was the playmaker of the team, turning defence into attack in one fluid action. Meanwhile, the goal shooter, who at a height of over 6 foot, dominated the D and made sure that Birmingham kept scoring after the goal attack was forced off after injury.
Next up for Birmingham it’s Leeds Beckett, and hopefully they can take this form on the road and come away with another victory.
