PANTHERS LOSE OUT TO LEAGUE LEADERS PENRYN
Panthers endured their toughest match of the season facing top of the division Penryn 3
With two of their original line up not available until later in the game, Louise Piner started at WD and Erin Beale at WA. Both settled into the team quickly and Panthers took an early 3 goal lead. However, the strong Penryn GA brought her side into the game and despite pressure from GD Vicki Hastings and fantastic interceptions by Piner, the two sides were level at the end of the first period.
The second quarter saw more fantastic netball from both sides, the goals stayed with the centre pass and there was little between the two teams. Amie Hoskin worked hard to link defense and attack and, despite strong defending from her opponent, she continued her movement around the circle to give both her and GS Christina Broad every chance at goal. However, the tall Penryn shooter began to find her form and combined with the strong GA they kept the scores level, ending the half at 14 goals all.
Changes were made in the 3rd quarter bringing on original WA Emma Dunn and placing a versatile Beale into defense, with Drinkell taking up the C position. Good use of the court lead to some great conversions by Broad, but silly mistakes by the home team allowed Penryn to take the lead for the first time, leading 20-18 going into the last.
With the return of GK Kay Barker and Elliott back in C spirits were high but Penryn came out strong, quickly extending their lead. The Panthers didn’t give up and spurred on by their supporters they fought hard to the end with everyone giving it 100%. However, despite their best efforts they were unable to pull the deficit back and the game ended 23 - 29.
A disappointing result for The Panthers, and their first loss of the season on home turf, but with 2 games to go, a place in division 4 could still be theirs!
Pictures by Glen Rogers