Thunder slay the Dragons

NETBALL:

NORTHERN Thunder enjoyed a 61-39 home victory over Celtic Dragons in the FIAT Netball Super League.

Unforced errors from both sides left their respective coaches with plenty to say at the end of the first quarter, which the hosts edged 14-9.

Goal keeper Kerry Almond earned plenty of plaudits for her defensive work. Thunder’s Tracey Neville introduced Karen Greig and Rachel Henry and it soon paid off, Greig scoring from long-range.

Sara Bayman and Emma Dovey stepped up their control of proceedings in centre court, which helped secure a 27-16 advantage at the halfway point.

The visitors struggled to gain a foothold and failed to narrow the gap in the third quarter.

A strong team effort saw Thunder ensure a comfortable victory as they were rarely troubled in the final quarter. Almond, an imposing presence all evening, was handed the player of the match award, to the delight of the home faithful.

Next up for Neville’s side is a mouth watering clash with Surrey Storm, as the two undefeated sides go head-to-head for the first time this season.