Birmingham went into this league game keen to extend their winning streak to seven games. They certainly believed this was achievable as they were facing an out of form Derby team. Derby went into this match sitting bottom of the league table without a win to their name across the entire season. The two teams previous meeting would certainly be on the Derby players’ mind as they suffered a bitter blow, losing 93-18.
The Birmingham Ladies set the tempo for the entire game in the first twenty-five seconds of the first quarter as their number nine showed her skill with an impressive three-pointer. The first quarter saw Birmingham go unchallenged when on the offence. They had ample amount of time and were being unmarked leading to the home team scoring twenty-four points. The first quarter finished 24-2 to Birmingham.
In the second quarter, Birmingham were just as ruthless in their offence and defence. Derby never looked like an attacking threat with weak passing and a lack of physicality. However, credit has to go to Birmingham who were extremely sharp and were determined to keep their opposition score to a minimum. They made countless interceptions and broke on the counter-attack leading to many two-pointers. On these occasions, Birmingham were breaking with at least three players, Derby simply could not keep up with the pace of the game. Birmingham went into the half way mark leading 43-2.
The third quarter was arguably Birmingham’s best as they ramped it up another notch. This was evident with the effective use of a pressing tactic from the home team. Whenever Derby were on the offence but starting from their end line, Birmingham pressed, preventing Derby from moving out of their half. Derby then would run out of options, Birmingham would make the interception and add to their increasing points score. Derby certainly felt that they were in the Lions’ Den. The third quarter finished 77-2 to Birmingham.
In the final quarter, Birmingham’s intensity dropped a little which was understandable after three breath-taking quarters. Yet, this did not stop the home team keeping their point score increasing. Derby did have something to celebrate as one of their players showed skill and composure by scoring a three pointer. However, it was too late for Derby as the game was won in the first quarter.
The game finished 91-5 to the Lions. The fixture was a mismatch evidently shown by the staggering score line. I don’t think I will get the opportunity to see such a one-sided encounter ever again. The future looks bright for the Birmingham Women’s 1st who, I have no doubt, will go on to win the league.
Benjamin Watts
