Thunder do Greenwood proud

NETBALL:

THE inaugural Mike Greenwood Trophy, in memory of the man who guided Oldham Netball Club juniors to a record 40 titles, ended up in the grateful hands of Manchester Thunder at Wright Robinson College.

Players and staff from Thunder viewed Greenwood, who passed away last year, as a role model and went into the competition desperate to do him proud.

As well as working wonders with the youngsters, the 64 year old also took the senior team through five divisions of the National League.

A minute’s applause was held for Greenwood before the start of the action, and youngsters from Oldham Netball Club led the teams out as ball girls.

Fittingly, Thunder captain Emma Dovey, who also plays for Oldham, was named player of the tournament. Alice Travis, of Hulme Grammar, also starred.

After easing past Scotland Select 35-3, Thunder came from behind to draw 23-23 with Yorkshire Jets.

A 21-19 defeat by Team Northumbria did not present a problem for Tracey Neville’s side, whose place in the final was already guaranteed.

Neville was able to rest several regulars ahead of the competition’s climax.

Yorkshire stood in the way in the final, and Thunder produced a fine 25-18 victory.

Thunder director Debbie Hallas said: “Hopefully we can develop this tournament into a fantastic legacy, of which Mike would be proud.”