Epsom’s 1st Netball team battled hard in a tense, tough cup match against Latymer Upper to progress to the Fourth Round of this year’s Independent Schools Netball Cup.
The girls had received a bye in both the 1st and 2nd rounds of the Cup, so going into this match it was clear that Latymer Upper – having progressed this far – would prove tough opposition. In addition, this was the first outing for the newly-formed Epsom 1st VII and somewhat of an unknown.
However, within the first five minutes it was clear that the Epsom girls had clicked as a team and they worked incredibly well together, with quick, dynamic passages of play, great defence and excellent shooting. By half-time, the girls were six goals ahead.
However, the second half was a different story. Tiredness from some of the girls started to show and although they continued to put in their all on the court, Latymer seized the opportunity to pull back three goals in the third quarter, and then equal at full time. As it was a cup match this meant extra time of five minutes each way.
Our girls were frustrated with their second half performance and at some decisions, and went into the first period of extra time fired up and determined to get the win they felt they deserved.
They pulled five goals ahead and then remained calm and controlled, despite immense pressure, to hold on to the lead and not panic when Latymer managed to get it back to just two.
Without doubt this was a team effort but special mention to Natascha Penwarden (Cr) and Izzy Mitchell (R) who in their first 1st team outing were pivotal to the success of the team. Captain Ebube Akojie (Wh) was outstanding, supporting her team throughout with intelligent calls and encouragement, as well as winning numerous balls from the strong Latymer GS.
Jennifer Phizackerley (Cr), playing GD for the first time in years, worked extremely well with Ebube in circle defence, switching the play and anticipating the ball. Elisabeth Phizackerley (Cr) connected well with Natascha and Izzy in the midcourt. Solid shooting by Ellie Thwaites (M) and India Binnie (R), especially during extra time, was game-changing. Well done all.
Player of the Match: Ebube Akojie (Wh)
WON 35-33
