Thunder survive Lightning strike

NETBALL: NORTHERN Thunder banked the points but got a thorough workout from the Co-operative Netball Superleague’s most improved side, Loughborough Lightning.

The 56-37 win moves Thunder move back into third place in the battle at the top.

But they were made to battle by a youthful Loughborough side which has gone from strength to strength this season.

Jo Harten and Becky James scored 12 from 13 attempts in the first period to keep the visitors in touch, but Thunder were 30-19 ahead by half-time.

Despite not being at their best, Thunder continued to cash in on turnover ball in the second half, although it needed an outstanding defensive effort from Emma Dovey to help them over the winning line.

Goal-defence Dovey said “We got off to a fast start but lost a little concentration and allowed them to get back into the game. But we dug in deep in the second quarter and pushed hard for the rest of the game.”