Mavericks vs Lightning Away 4th November 2005

In a star-packed game at Hatfield University this evening, Loughborough Lightning kept up a super-fast pace, with clinical finishing, to dismiss the challenge of Mavericks' own star-studded line-up 51-28. The first quarter set the stage for a fast and furious game, with both teams battling for possession all over the court. Loughborough edged the quarter 11-8. In the second period, Loughborough really turned the screw, outscoring Mavericks 16-3. Olivia Murphy (C) and Karen Atkinson (WA) found Lisa Stephenson (GA) and Alex Astle (GS)in space in the circle. Meanwhile, in defence, Jade Clarke was tireless at WD, while Laura Brown (GD) and Ama Agbeze (GK) baffled the Mavericks shooters with their reach and anticipation. The third quarter was further one-way traffic, despite the best efforts of the Mavericks team, with Loughborough taking the period 17-6 to lead 44-17 at the break. Mavericks regrouped for the final quarter, introducing former England international Heather Clarke at GA, Vicky Diss at WD, and moving Ann Marie Muller to WA. The combination switch paid off, with Mavericks outscoring Loughborough 11-7 to take the quarter. However, the game was by now out of Mavericks' reach, and Loughborough take the points.