The Epsom 1st VII travelled to Ilford for the third round of the Independent Schools Cup. They started cautiously and, despite forcing turnovers, their hesitant play meant these were not converted. They finished the first quarter one goal down.
After quarter-time team talk and team changes, the girls went into the second quarter much sharper. They started strongly with a run of four unanswered goals to take the lead. Confident, fluid play meant they continued to push Chigwell and at half time they were five goals ahead.
Going into the third quarter the game was anyone’s for the taking, but the Epsom girls played some of their best netball. Transitions from defence through to attack were excellent and smart play in the attacking third, finished off with accurate shooting, extended Epsom’s lead to 11 goals.
The girls maintained their lead throughout the final quarter, despite Chigwell’s best efforts, to finish with a 45-34 win.
This was a full team effort. Adahna Ekoku (Rv) and Ebube Akojie (Wh) in the defensive circle continued to develop their partnership. Jen Phizackerley (Cr) and Sophie Rhodes (R) shared the wing defence role, and both were so effective at putting the attack under pressure and forcing errors.
In the attacking circle India Binnie (R) and Ellie Thwaites (M) were calm, confident and accurate. Though the mid-court Ellie Cooke (R) and Liz Phizackerley (Cr) balanced the court well in attack and were both strong defensively, deservedly winning numerous interceptions. Lastly, player of the match, Hannah Palmer (M) at wing attack, took on everything covered at training and every coaching point given to her, and played intelligent and dominant netball from centre pass to circle edge.
Epsom now go on to the fourth round as one of the final 16.
Player of the Month: Hannah Palmer (M)
