Netball Super League | London Pulse’s Peace Akinyemi promoted to VNSL squad in place of injured Adio

Peace Akinyemi of London Pulse and Roses Academy.

London Pulse have promoted Peace Akinyemi to their Vitality Netball Superleague (VNSL) squad in place of injured defender Halimat Adio.

England international Adio had her season ended after a lateral meniscus tear in Round 14 of the 2021 season.

The knee injury has put an end to a successful campaign for Pulse’ co-captain after she appeared in the league’ top five for interceptions, deflections and turnovers.

Replacing her is London Pulse’s U21 co-captain Peace Akinyemi. The 17-year-old – a talented young defender who can play at goal keeper and goal defence – is now a training partner in the VNSL squad.

Fellow young defender Funmi Fadoju has subsequently been promoted from a training partner to a registered squad player.

Akinyemi started her career at Premier League outfit Turnford Netball Club and has been part of the London Pulse pathway for four years.

The teenager has also been part of the Roses Academy since 2018 and was first selected before her 16th birthday. She was was selected as a reserve for U17 Netball Europe in early 2019.

I’d like to start off by wishing Hali a speedy recovery 💗🖤. Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity and believing in me, I’m so excited 🎉. https://t.co/sTKP8kYi7e

— Peace Akinyemi (@peace_akinyemi) May 7, 2021

Sam Bird, Head Coach and CEO of London Pulse, said: “Obviously we are devastated that Hali [Adio] has sustained an injury preventing her taking to the court again this season. Hali has been a standout player for London Pulse in the defending circle. She has our full support in her recovery and I know she will come back stronger than ever.

“I’m delighted to be bringing Peace into the squad from our U21s. She is another talented defender coming through the London Pulse ranks, who trained with the VNSL squad last year. She is a real star for the future and I know she will grab this opportunity with both hands.”

Akinyemi’s VNSL debut could come in Pulse’s Round 15 outing against two-time champions Wasps at the Copper Box Arena on Monday 10 May.

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