UEL weren’t up to their high standards, but still showed moments of quality to beat Kings College nines 45-20.
First Quarter Fightback
UEL was tested straight from the centre pass from a buoyant King’s college team who took a quick for nothing lead.
UEL fought back, thanks to centre Tallie Meager who took complete control.
She made key interceptions and key passes into the attacking circle and where goal attack, Kyra Boyce and goal shooter Grace Lyinbor were clinical shooting perfectly in the first quarter.
Defensively Strong
Taking a 14-5 lead into the second quarter UEL didn’t keep the pressure on with wayward passes and bad decisions which let Kings College back in with a chance.
Although, goalkeeper Oliva Legrand and her defence stood strong and restricted Kings to only four more points. After a clinical first quarter the points dried up for the attack but the shots, they did get off was good enough to extend the lead 21-9.
UEL showed the reason why they are the team to beat this season using their athleticism to their advantage. As Kings College started to faulter, key players Siba Mguga, Tallie Meager and Kyra Boyce made the game their own with quick play the ladies lead with Siba shooting 18/20 while out on the floor.
The quarter ended with UEL way out in front leading 40-15. Fans of the netballers have come accustomed to a high scoring last quarter this season.
However, UEL couldn’t get going with silly mistakes preventing an onslaught, but the defence remained strong as they have all game with Pierette Simuene making key blocks to kill any hope that Kings College London nines had of getting something from this game.
POTM
Player of the match was a tough one to call with individuals having great games. But Gemima Eshimu Massambu was up and down the court all day playing wing defence and centre in the game. Her stamina was shown the last quarter as she orchestrated the team from centre.
What’s Next?
The draw for the quarter final, saw UEL pull out City University two and the game will be played in the new year in February. The ladies will look forward to hosting title rivals Kent fours next Wednesday a game that could be UEL’s toughest game yet. As for Kings college London nines they will look to return to winning ways away to Goldsmith’s ones.
Edited By Pierrette Simuene
