THE start of a new season always brings excitement, and Sunday’s clash between Newcastle and Peninsula was no different.
After a nail-biting finish last season, both teams were back on court eager to assert their dominance in what promised to be a thrilling encounter. Newcastle, playing at home, showed their class and control throughout, securing a comprehensive 34-21 victory, winning all four quarters in a fast-paced, intense match.
The game began with high energy from both sides. Newcastle’s line-up featured Therese as goalkeeper, Lauren at goal defence, and Eileen at wing defence for the first quarter.
The defensive trio immediately set the tone for Newcastle, applying immense pressure on Peninsula’s attackers.
Lauren and Therese formed a strong defensive wall, intercepting several passes and limiting Peninsula’s scoring opportunities.
In attack, Newcastle’s centre, Kitty, who would later be named Player of the Match, displayed brilliant vision and passing accuracy. Her swift movement and smart distribution allowed the home side to take the lead early on.
Wing attack Shona supported Kitty well with sharp passing, but unfortunately, her game was cut short due to an injury late in the quarter, forcing Newcastle to make an early change, bringing Nicola onto the court.
Despite the setback, Newcastle maintained their momentum, with Nicola linking up well with goal attack Clare and goal shooter Lynsey, who alternated effectively in the shooting circle.
Peninsula kept the score close, but Newcastle held firm to edge the quarter 6-4.
Heading into the second quarter, Aisling replaced Eileen in the wing defence position, and Newcastle made a tactical switch in attack, bringing Nicola in at goal attack and Louise at goal shooter.
This change brought an extra dynamic to their play, with Nicola’s speed and movement keeping Peninsula’s defence guessing.
Kitty’s dominance at centre continued to shine through, controlling the pace of the game with her decisive play.
Her ability to spot space and deliver precise passes was instrumental in Newcastle, helping to extend the lead.
Clare, now playing at wing attack following Shona’s injury, settled into the role well, providing great service into the shooting circle.
Peninsula, though behind, remained a threat. Their defensive efforts tightened, forcing Newcastle into a few handling errors, but the home team’s defence, led by Therese and Lauren, was impenetrable.
Any loose balls were quickly snapped up, and Peninsula struggled to break through for clear shots on goal.
Newcastle outscored Peninsula 8-6 in the second quarter, taking a 14-10 lead into halftime.
In the full report read how the team performed in the second half.
