Manchester Thunder director of netball Tracey Neville insists there is still work to do after watching her side storm to victory against Loughborough Lightning.
The Netball Superleague team cruised to a 60-36 win at Sir David Wallace Sports Hall, with teenagers Helen Housby and Alice Travis given first-team experience after half-time.
Though Neville believes all the hours her team has ground out in practice are starting to pay off, she admits Team Northumbria will present a different challenge next Monday.
“In parts, Loughborough Lightning caused us problems and we will certainly be looking at this going into our next game,” she said.
“The win definitely demonstrated the hard work that the girls have been putting in over the last month.
“Collectively as a squad, we have been working on execution of movement, post-delivery of the ball and cementing relationships between individuals and units.”
Thunder made the perfect start – scoring from their own centre pass and capitalising on a Kerry Almond turnover to take an early two-goal lead.
They edged the first quarter 12-9, but both teams produced sloppy errors as possession swapped frequently.
After moving through the gears in the second quarter, Thunder managed a run of four goals without an answer and ended the half 29-15 up.
Neville introduced youngsters Housby and Travis from the restart and, while starting shakily, they started to grow into the game.
More youth was introduced in the fourth quarter – Eleanor Cardwell and Georgie Webster partnering in defence – as Thunder saw out a 24-goal win.
Neville’s side will play their final home match of the season on Monday and the crowd is encouraged to come in fancy dress for a half-time Harlem Shake.
Book discounted tickets here: https://www.ticketline.co.uk/order/tickets/13281888/manchester-thunder-v-team-northumbria-manchester-thunderdome-2013-05-06-16-00-00
Picture courtesy of Bright i Photography, with thanks.
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