Lightning vs Mavericks 27th May 2006

Mavericks held their form and their nerve to take a thrilling 46-44 extra time victory over Loughborough Lightning in the figleaves.com Netball Superleague play offs, and now move into next week’s final against TeamBath. The result was a heartbreaking second consecutive overtime loss for Loughborough, who lost to TeamBath in the first round of play offs last weekend.

In front of a capacity crowd at the Hatfield Sports Village, Mavericks were inspired by a superb defensive display from their international players Amanda Newton and captain Naomi Stenhouse, while former England star Deb Jones ensured that Loughborough’s current international captain Olivia Murphy was made to fight for every ball. Loughborough had the best of a tight and tense opening period, taking it 11-9, but Mavericks stormed back into contention, taking the second period 9-7 to leave the scores level at 20 all at half time.

Mavericks coach Maggie Jackson introduced Lynsey Armitage at GS for the second half, and her height and space creation made things difficult for Loughborough’s circle defenders. At the same time, Loughborough introduced Jade Clarke at WD and her skill and speed forced errors from the Mavericks attack. Loughborough took the quarter 10-9, to lead 30-29 with 15 minutes remaining.

And so to the final quarter. Loughborough coach Rose Port made another change, bringing on towering England U21 GK Hannah Reid to contest the overhead ball to Armitage and Brownfield. Mavericks worked hard to protect every possession they earned, and with the clock ticking down, edged the quarter 9-8 to leave the scores level at 36 all at the end of full time.

Extra time was a similarly see-saw affair, with neither team able to stamp their authority on the match and draw ahead. Loughborough took the first period of extra time 5-3, but Mavericks held their nerve and stuck to their game plan. Armitage and Brownfield provided two tall targets for the home side’s attack, and Loughborough found it difficult to work the ball to their own shooters with Mavericks’ Newton and Coulburne putting intense pressure on every shot, forcing several turnovers. Mavericks took the quarter 7-3 and the game 46-44 to move into next week’s Grand Final.

Starting Line Ups:

Mavericks: GS Heather Clarke, GA Louisa Brownfield, WA Ann Marie Muller, C Deb Jones, WD Naomi Stenhouse, GD Amanda Newton, GK Janet Coulburne

Changes / substitutions: 3rd Q: GS Lynsey Armitage

Loughborough Lightning: GS Alex Astle, GA Lisa Stephenson, WA Karen Atkinson, C Olivia Murphy, WD Charlotte O’Neill, GD Laura Brown, GK Sarah Penny