Nottingham Forest Netball went down 81-65 against Manchester Thunder in the Netball Super League.
FIRST QUARTER
Forest started the match 1-0 after losing possession and regaining it due to a call for contact. Iona Christian gave a strong feed to Rolene Streutker for the first goal; however, Manchester Thunder regained possession and brought the score to an even 1-1. The Reds showed strength with their defense throughout the first quarter with Natasha Pavelin and Jayda Pechova, being a pair to watch out for. Despite the pairing, Thunders constantly changing attacking strategy and speed of the ball down the court created pressure and an advantage even with minor errors early on. The first quarter ended 23-12 in Thunder’s favour.
SECOND QUARTER
The hosts started with early possession, scoring instantly. Forest’s Hannah Leighton was quick to regain possession with long-ball catches, allowing Forest to apply some pressure. Despite this possession, Thunder’s defense remained strong. Forest’s attempts to enter the attacking circle were quickly dismissed. Christian changed the pace of the quarter towards the end, with a fantastic regain of possession. She got the ball back down the court allowing for Forest to dominate and feed Streutker with the perfect ball to score. Forest took charge when it came to chances in the super shot, bringing the second quarter to a close, 39-29 to Manchester Thunder.
THIRD QUARTER
The home side maintained early possession once again with their good defensive strategies. Streutker proved reliable in this quarter, every shot was buried, allowing Forest’s early chances in this quarter to be well executed. After a brief tactical time out, Forest came back with dominance. The strategy for the final few minutes allowed Freya Henshall alongside Streutker (GS) to provide vital goals for Forest. Hannah Leighton showed strength in her long-ball catches once again. The third quarter ended with a ten-point difference, 60-50 to Manchester Thunder.
FOURTH QUARTER
The fourth quarter started with an even game, both teams providing chances. The Reds came to the quarter with energy, regaining possession in quick succession. Goal shooter Streutker continued to impress with her accuracy, however Manchester thunder quickly responded. Streutker tactically waited for the super shot when scoring, securing crucial consecutive double point goals for forest with the help of Henshall. Thunder however, managed to regain possession in the final few closing seconds of the game, securing their overall win, 81-65.