Mavericks Tame Glasgow Wildcats

Saturday 6th December 2008
Won 58 - 25

Mavericks profited from their first NSL game North of Hadrian’s Wall, ticking all the boxes, by trouncing Glasgow Wildcats 58 - 25.

Mavericks, from the first whistle, showed confidence and poise with Michelle Hall, Louisa Brownfield, Karen Atkinson and Chrissy Fitzgerald dominating all attacking space to ensure a 9 -5 score line within minutes. The attack was consistent and with added excellent defensive work from all areas, especially the back 3 of Stef Belo, Hazel Schofield and Naida Hutchinson they went into the first break with a 9 goal lead: 15- 6.

This set the tone of the match. Wildcats were forced to make early changes, Mavericks capitalized on their reshuffle. Head Coach Kendra Slawinski chose to keep her starting seven playing in the second quarter. This Mavericks combination increased their lead by 14 goals. At half time the score was 26-12.

At three quarter time both sides made changes. Mavericks opting for the single change bringing Chioma Ezeogu into the game at centre. The Wildcat changes had little impact on the Mavericks side. Mavericks continued to dominate the mid-court and in particular experienced mid-courter and Captain Karen Atkinson showed exactly why she is a World class player, delivering feeds relentlessly with poise and precision. The feeding into shooters Michelle Hall and Louisa Brownfield was a highlight of the match. One feed in particular a champagne moment! We are still asking how she did it!! The defensive work of the Mavericks team was uncompromising and continued to force errors from the Wildcats. Mavericks domination led to an 18 – 6 quarter score, leaving Wildcats trailing 18 - 44.

Wildcats made numerous changes and had a spirited passage of play early in the fourth quarter, but Mavericks were determined to finish strongly. They went onto to increase they lead to finish 58 – 25.

Head Coach Kendra Slawinski was more than satisfied with her squad. ‘I was very pleased with the overall team performance. We started very well, maintained our edge and hit numerous team objectives which is always very encouraging’

With two games remaining this side of Christmas, Mavericks have to remain focused to stay in touch with the teams above.