FROME Stars netball team secured their promotion to Moonraker Division 1 last month with a hard-fought victory over Chippenham C.
Despite losing a player in the first minute, the Stars pushed forward to win by 14 points and take the league title.
Team captain Sheriden Pleasants said, “This was another great team effort from Frome who turned a game around through determination and belief in each other.
“Stars would like to thank all who played and subbed for them over the season, and also to coach Jane Boyland who came to this match and has helped immensely with helping Frome Netball Club move forward.
“The victory was by no means easy for the team. Fourteen seconds into the game Star’s centre Lisa Ault landed badly and sustained a serious injury. The disruption affected players as the match continued with Lisa lying close to the court.
“Dawn Heal came on as a replacement and Stars settled but were only ahead by one point in the first quarter. Against a tall defence, Star’s shooters Hannah Dredge and Janie Bullus struggled to pick up rebounds from their shots and Chippenham took advantage from this to turn defence into attack. Nonetheless, the score at half time was 16-13 in Stars’ favour.
“In the third quarter Stars picked up the pace and better passing and shooting meant an increasing lead. Jo Knight and Sophie Cox worked tirelessly to bring the ball down-court and Hannah and Janie managed to get their shooting back on track.
“The final quarter proved to be their best with Kathy Dredge and Sheri Pleasants in defence with some brilliant interceptions, restricting Chippenham to just one goal.
“Stars’ game flowed and they relaxed knowing they were going to win and take the title.
“Player of the match went to Kathy Dredge who gained in confidence as the match progressed. Player’s player went to Lisa Ault who is now awaiting an operation on her leg.”
The Stars team for the 2014/15 season were Hannah Dredge, Jane Bullus, Jo Knight (Vice Captain), Kathy Dredge, Lisa Ault, Sheriden Pleasants (Captain), and Sophie Cox.
There is more information about netball in Frome at www.fromenetballclub.co.uk
