Lightning vs Team Northumbria 29 October 2005

Loughborough Lightning 75 vs 31 Team Northumbria

Loughborough Lightning's slick, fast passing and clinical finishing proved too tough for visitors Team Northumbria, with Loughborough taking a 75-31 victory in the second round of matches in the figleaves.com Netball Superleague. Loughborough coach Rose Port took the opportunity to ring the changes in her shooting circle, giving a starting run out to Welsh international Becky James at GS, who helped to drive Loughborough to a 12-7 lead at quarter time with some accurate shooting. The introduction of former England international Alex Astle for the second quarter, partnering Lisa Stephenson, galvanised the Loughborough attack, with the home side outscoring the visitors 19-5 in the second half, to leave the half time score 31-12 in Lougborough's favour. Team Northumbria introduced Northern Ireland international Noleen Lennon at half time, and her height and accuracy gave the visitors increased focus. However, Astle and Stephenson were now on song, and with Loughborough's all star centre court line up mopping up all the loose possession, Loughborough streaked ahead, taking the second half 44-19, to take a comfortable win.