Ryan Rocastle
Despite the appalling conditions Kingston netball first team produced a fine performance to beat Reading first team 36-25.
The match was almost abandoned in the third quarter when a rainstorm meant the court was virtually unplayable but both teams rallied and Kingston were able to take victory.
Cougars Captain Adeva Bryan said: “As soon as it started to downpour we had to change our game and do passes directly to the player. We did this really well and it allowed us to keep our lead on the game. It’s a good win for us.”
Bright start
The contest started brightly for Kingston with goal attack Carly Hennah and goal shooter Theresa Onyemah linking up really well in the first quarter.
Reading had a lot of the ball but on the counter attack Kingston were extremely dangerous and the pace of their moves caused Reading lots of problems.
However by the end of the second quarter Reading had improved and Kingston were not playing the free flowing netball that we had seen from them at the start of the match.
The service to the two attackers was not as good and Reading were now using the ball better and were very clinical with their shooting. At the end of the second quarter the score was 20-17 to Kingston.
Objects flying
The third quarter was where the weather started to take over. The pitch was extremely wet, both sides were slipping all over the place and the visibility was poor.
Spectators at Tolworth Court were being blown backwards by the wind and objects were flying everywhere. The officials seemed very tempted to halt proceedings but the game continued.
Kingston reacted better to the conditions and despite neither side really being able to run properly on the slippery court, Kingston took control.
Captain Bryan showed great leadership when she came on as a substitute not only by converting her chances but also ordering her team to keep focus despite the tough weather conditions.
Well deserved victory
Reading captain Isobel Anstey said: “The conditions were the same for both teams so we can’t complain. It was an even match before the rain kicked in so I’m looking forward to playing them in our indoor court.”
The only negative for Kingston was the injury suffered to defender Tori Jackson who had to be carried off the court. She will want to be back for the cup game against Canterbury Christ Church on November 28.