So close, so proud

Exeter travelled to Walsall to compete in the National Colleges Netball cup final last week.

Their opponents were Greenhead College who are reigning National Colleges and National Schools Champions so this was always going to be a challenge. With some key positional changes being forced on Exeter due to injuries the girls got off to a flying start. Kate Wayland and Zoe Gresham in defence made some key interceptions allowing Yas Hodge-England and Emily Rousden to capitalise in the circle. Quick offloading from Phoebe Slee and Rachel Solway helped Exeter race into a 6-2 lead.

Greenhead started to settle and increased their work rate, pulling back to win the first quarter 15-10. The second quarter saw missed opportunities for Exeter. Britt Johnson and Rachel Solway worked hard both in attack and defence trying to slow down the Greenhead force. Outstanding movement and 100% shooting from their shooters saw them stretch ahead and the half time score was 14-36.

Positional changes were made at half time which kept Greenhead from dominating in all areas. They used their bench effectively allowing fresh players to take to the court. Exeter’s only substitution Sophie Glover came on and performed outstanding in her debut for the team.

Final score 28-73 Exeter showed determination and commitment throughout and were a credit to the college both on and off the court.