Youth Buried in Bury...

Saturday 22nd November 2008
Lost 29 - 50

This was Maverick Youth’s second match of the season against Northern Thunder. Having lost their first match against Loughborough, the girls really wanted a win to get their season going properly. The squad selected was, Shaunagh, Zoe, Alice , Katie, Abi, Sophia, Shana, Kelsy, Steff, Lauren, Loran, and Debbie.

Maverick Youth started the first quarter confidently and started with a four goal lead, stemming from an early mistake by Thunder. However, as Thunder’s confidence grew it became a lot closer and Mavericks began to fall slowly behind, 7-10. Mavericks composed themselves and pulled it back to 11-12 when the whistle went for quarter time. Zoe had a 100% accuracy rate as GA in this quarter which is fantastic.

Mavericks took the court in the second quarter with a couple of changes, in hope that this would open up the court. Thunder made some excellent interceptions and made most of the rebound opportunities. This really made a difference to the score which ended 16-28 after this quarter. Mavericks scored five goals this quarter out of eight opportunities. Thunder were breaking down Mavericks centre passes with ease and not allowing the ball to even get as far as our circle on many occasions. Mavericks struggled to score in this quarter and really needed more offers and runs made in the centre third.

In the third quarter Mavericks came on strong and determined. They were moving the ball well and getting the ball further down the court; however the girls were still struggling to make interceptions which lead to Thunder having 17 shooting opportunities to Mavericks 8. The play was generally better, but still needed to go that bit further to get those interceptions and turn the ball over.

The final quarter was much improved and the girls were fighting for the ball more. The centre passes came out easier with Alice coming on as GA to open the play up more. The attack was smoother and the rotation worked in the circle when it could. However, there was still not enough shooting opportunities which obviously is key to victory. Thunder had 15 opportunities whilst Mavericks had 8. The final score was 50-29 to Northern Thunder.

I don’t feel that the score is a fair reflection of the match in many respects. The girls put in a huge amount of effort and listened well to what coaches were saying. The squad was pleased with parts of the performance but are more than aware that there are lots of areas which now need attention, for example centre passes, timing of moves and interceptions. Maverick Youth were disappointed with the result of the match but look forward to their next match against West Midlands having worked on these areas. The girls, I’m sure, will go into the match with confidence in themselves and their team mates. Good luck girls!

By Author
Katie Chambers

Mavericks Official Photographer for this match: Kate Schofield
Contact photographs@mavericksnetball.co.uk for more information