FROME’S second team Diamonds travelled to Devizes recently, hoping to get another win against Westbury Sabres.
Diamonds had already beaten Westbury earlier in the season so were itching to do the same this time round. Diamonds were missing their Goal Attack Georgia Cox, so had recruited Ellie Gibbs from Hearts. Ellie and Helen got off to a great start in the first quarter, scoring 9 goals, but Westbury were determined to keep up with them, scoring 7, with their GS shooting from very far away from the post.
Going into the second quarter the defence of Tash and Carly worked together tremendously to stop Westbury’s shooters from getting the ball. Diamonds had some fantastic attacking play through centre court from Tracy GG and Sheri, enabling Diamonds to hold on to their lead and push ahead to 18-14.
At half time, coach Jane made some changes to the team, bringing Elise on at WD, Amy at GD, and moving Carly to GK. Diamonds quickly settled into these changes and play flowed beautifully all across the court. Amy and Carly worked together to try and stop the GS receiving the ball for Westbury as she barely missed, earning them countless tips and interceptions!
With the combined effort of Elise GG and Sheri, Diamonds were able to feed the ball into the shooters Helen and Ellie, who had really come into their own this quarter, extending the lead to 30-18. The last quarter saw Diamonds really dig deep. With another great team talk from coach Jane and Captains Sheri and Helen, Diamonds were pressurising every Westbury pass, forcing many errors which allowed them to take advantage and get the turnovers.
After another outstanding display at the final whistle they had won 41-27. This win means that with one game left of the season, Diamonds cannot finish below 2nd place. Incredible squad performance again.
Player of the match went to Ellie Gibbs, players’ player, Sheri Pleasants.
Report by Jane Bullus
