Leeds Rhinos return to winning ways against Strathclyde Sirens

Rhinos started well from the first whistle, forcing Sirens into making mistakes. They found themselves 3-0 within the first few minutes, but Sirens responded well, and it was back all square not long after.

Despite the Scottish side starting shaky under the post, mistakes from both sides meant there was nothing separating them after the first 12 minutes.

Amelia Hall was introduced in the wing attack position in the second quarter, with Brie Grierson dropping to the bench.

Rhinos started the second period well, rattling off seven goals without a reply from Sirens to put a vital gap in between them and their opponents.

Sienna Rushton showed her strength in the shooting circle, with the attacking team working the short balls well around the circle edge and into the shooters.

Sirens began to settle towards the end of the second quarter with the ball flowing through the court much better and their defense getting important turnovers. At the end of the first half Rhinos had a three-goal advantage, 20-17.

It went from goal-to-goal at the start of the third quarter, with both teams finding their feet quickly in all areas of the court.

Sirens upped their game throughout the period with their defence picking off interceptions and taking them to goal. They were back level at 28-28 with three minutes to go in the third quarter.

Despite the defensive strength from Sirens, Rhinos kept their nerve and worked tirelessly to maintain possession of the ball and keep the scoreboard ticking over. There wasn’t  anything to separate the sides again in the third quarter with Rhinos maintaining their three-goal advantage at 32-29.

The final quarter continued in the same vein. Michelle Magee, who had come on at goal defence at different points throughout the game, came out with an important interception to extend the Rhinos lead.

A mixture of missed opportunities and Rhinos’ strong defensive pressure were the difference between the two sides that secured Leeds Rhinos their third win of the season as they defeated Sirens 43-36.

Age Partnership Player of the Match: Sienna Rushton (Leeds Rhinos Netball).

Match report from Leeds Rhinos Netball.

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