Play-off defeat for Thunder

Jade Clarke in play-off action for Thunder

NETBALL
NORTHERN Thunder failed to make it to the Netball Superleague Grand Final for the second year running after a 64-48 play-off defeat to Surrey Storm at Oldham Sports Centre.

The home side edged into an early lead, but Surrey won the first quarter 16-11 before a tied second quarter saw the visitors run in with a 30-25 cushion at half-time.

They then stretched their lead in the second half to put the game beyond the reach of Thunder, who received a standing ovation.

Assistant coach Suzy Chapman said: "We had our chances because there were times when it was close and we got the turn-over, we just didn't complete the turn-over enough.

"But I am really proud of the girls.”