Thunder showcase their quality

Thunder were quick off the mark in the first quarter, the return of Liana Leota’s name to the team sheet proved a reassuring sight.

The position of WA has been held down well by the likes of Amy Carter and Laura Malcolm in Leota’s absence, but it was certainly a welcome relief to see the partnership of Caroline O’Hanlon and Leota back in action.

Leota’s return meant a start for Rebekah Airey at WD, a position she controlled well until coach Karen Greig rolled in the changes in the third quarter.

Both shooters Kathryn Turner and Joyce Mvula enjoyed success under the post, with Turner maintaining a 100% shooting record deep into the second quarter, despite England Roses GD Ama Agbeze’s best efforts to quash Thunder’s lead.

Speed was the key in the first half and Thunder were able to take advantage of Pulse’s mistakes, rewarding themselves for their efforts as the goals flew in.

Pulse kept the pressure high leading into the close of the first half, Thunder managing to etch out a five goal lead.

Undoubtedly, something was different about Pulse in the third quarter and Thunder struggled to force them out of the game, unable to find the darting passes into the D they had enjoyed in the first half.

Pulse are no strangers to a comeback, proving their resilience at the Super 10s up against a Severn Stars side who had become complacent.  Thunder could not turn the pressure off and allow Pulse to take advantage.

Ellie Cardwell came in at GS to replace Mvula, and it took her a few minutes to settle into the position.  But by the last five minutes of the third quarter, Thunder had dispelled any chance of a Pulse comeback and Cardwell’s shooting prowess shone through, under the watchful eye of England Roses coach Tracey Neville.

Alongside a reliable Turner, who consistently slipped away from Agbeze’s grip, the pair proved their worth in the closing stages of play.

Thunder’s performance in the closing minutes of the third quarter was testament to their patience and stamina.  Airey was swapped out for Carter and the fresh legs on the court made a difference.  Thunder were able to cement a ten goal lead and from their it looked like a done deal.

The final quarter was, ultimately, slower than the rest as both teams started to show signs of fatigue.  Almond made way for Airey at GK and Malcolm replaced Leota at WA.

The Black and Yellows enjoyed large spells of possession and bided their time in searching for that key pass to release the shooters.  Momentum was key and it was unquestionably on Thunder’s side as the minutes ticked by.

O’Hanlon received her second consecutive Player of the Match for a stand out, yet signature, performance in centre court.

Thunder take their unbeaten record into the next round where they face Severn Stars away.

Starting 7s

Thunder: Almond, Dovey, Airey, O’Hanlon, Leota, Turner, Mvula

Pulse: Ngwira, Agbeze, Toner, Long, Neal, Semple, Slater

Player of the Match: Caroline O’Hanlon

Thunder’s next home game will be against Loughborough Lightning on the 16^th February.  You can grab tickets for that here: http://bit.ly/thuvlightning.

Tickets are also now available for the Vitality Netball Superleague Big Easter Weekend!

Make sure you’re following the Vitality Netball Superleague on Twitter for the latest news and updates!

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