COWIE Reds proved victorious in a local derby against club mates the Whites in the Aberdeen and District Netball Association third division last week.
The Whites won the toss and started a frantic quarter with the first centre. Their attacking circle balanced well and the Centre and Wing Attack fed their shooters a number of chances, which on occasion they were able to convert. The Reds couldn't se
ttle and moved far too quickly, failing to take advantage of the three seconds available to pass and players crowding in areas. Despite the Whites appearing to dominate the first quarter it was the Reds who led 4-3 at the break.
The Reds took control in the second quarter, slowing their game, spacing better throughout the court and effectively worked the ball up to their attacking circle where Goal Shooter Kirsty Jack was made to work hard by the Whites' Goal Keeper Sally Carns. The Whites continued to work hard and Louise Bathgate, on form at Centre, made a number of well timed interceptions, but they were unable to take advantage of the possession and the Reds increased their lead with a half time score of 13-5.
A pair of fresh legs at centre for the Reds paid off as they continued to dominate, however the game was still being played too fast and silly footwork, obstruction and contact infringements, as well as careless passing, handed possession to the Whites. The Whites continued to defend well with Carns winning rebounds from the post but the Reds' attack worked capably with short sharp passes in and out of the circle giving their shooters the best opportunities, which they were able to capitalise on and led 21-7 at the end of the quarter.
Again the Reds tried to slow the game and play at their own pace, concentrating once again on their spacing, which paid off as they stretched their lead. The Whites put in a lot of effort in the last quarter but the Reds' defence remained strong despite changes enforced by the departure of their injured Wing Defence Isobel Munn, and the Reds achieved a comfortable win with a final score of 26 goals to 12.
Fiona Lamont's hard work at Goal Attack earned her the Reds' player of the match while the determination and persistence of Sharon Brydon also a Goal Attack gained her the same accolade for the White team.
The Whites will have to wait until the last game of the season on March 23 next year for a chance to redress the balance, but this time may give them the experience they need to triumph over their more practiced club mates.
