Nottingham Forest Netball beat Cardiff Dragons in Home Debut

Nottingham Forest Netball marked our home debut in the Netball Super League with a thrilling win against Cardiff Dragons 70-54 at the Motorpoint Arena in front of a lively home crowd. The Reds showed strength and resilience in our first home fixture with the stand-up performance from Rolene Streutker (GS) who was named Player of the Match.

First Quarter

Forest started the match with a fast-paced and aggressive attacking strategy, moving quickly from the centre to apply early pressure. Despite Cardiff's strong defensive efforts, including a crucial interception from their wing defence (WD) and a well-timed catch just outside their shooting circle to prevent an out-ball, Forest maintained dominance in attack. In the final three minutes of the first quarter, Forest's goal shooter (GS) Rolene Streutker executed a precise long-range shot from the edge of circle. Cardiff continued to challenge, but Forest's relentless attack with a last-second goal by their GS, extending their lead. The first quarter ended with Forest ahead 17-11, demonstrating their offensive strength against a well-organized Cardiff defence.

Second Quarter

Cardiff started the second quarter with early possession, taking the first shot, but Forest quickly responded with a goal of their own. Forest's wing defence (WD) Hannah Leighton made a crucial impact with strong long-ball catches, helping to regain possession and maintain their attacking momentum. Forest continued to dominate in attack, widening the gap between themselves and Cardiff. By the end of that quarter Forest had extended their lead to 39-27 demonstrating both strength and defensive resilience.

Third Quarter

The beginning of the third quarter saw the Cardiff Dragons gain early possession from rebounds off Forest goal attempts, but they struggled to capitalise due to their frequent contact offences. After a tactical timeout the Forest goal shooter (GS) Rolene Streutker energised the home crowd with a spectacular long-range shot from the edge of the circle. With (WA) Brie Grierson contributing with crucial interceptions to regain possession. After the Cardiff Dragons became more lively and gained more possession Forest goalkeeper (GK) Jayda Pechová played a key role in catching rebounds from the Dragons goal attempts allowed to shift the momentum back in their favour. WA and GA worked seamlessly together creating space in the circle for scoring opportunities. By the end of the quarter Forest maintain their lead at 51-41.

Fourth Quarter

Forest started off the quarter with a goalkeeper swap. The Dragons started strong, but their opening play was quickly intercepted by Forest WD shifting position back to the home side. Cardiff Dragons became more aggressive in attack, but Forest remained composed. Goal shooter Rolene Streutker continued to impress with her accurate long-range shots keeping Forest firmly in control. WD Hannah Leighton remained a defensive powerhouse intercepting key passes and prevented Cardiff from closing the gap. A tactical timeout was called before the final six minutes, where Forest made a change swapping goal attack (GA). Forest's GK made crucial blocks inside the Dragon circle in the closing moments of the game. Despite the Cardiff Dragons scoring the final goal of the match it wasn’t enough. Backed by the energy of their home crowd Nottingham Forest Netball sealed a victorious 70-54 win over the Cardiff Dragons. Player of the Match was awarded to Forest goal shooter (GS) Rolene Streutker for her outstanding shooting performance.