Netball

Liskeard Tigers 28

Plymouth Marjon Eagles 17

On the back of two recent victories, Liskeard faced bottom-of-the-table Plymouth Marjon Eagles confident they could continue their winning streak.

With the absence of Gabi Duffey, Lucy Smale returned to the shooting circle to partner Della Moloney for the first time.

Liskeard started strong, quick turnovers in defence from Holly Lemon, linked by Jo Nickle in the mid court and well-timed dodges from Sarah Collins gave the team confidence from the off.

Marjon struggled to find their feet and their loose passes were gathered up by the Tigers and swiftly moved down court.

A great first quarter from Smale, netting six out of eight attempts, put the Tigers 7-3 at the break.

Emily Tamblyn came off the bench at GK for the second quarter, returning to the court for the first time since early September, and Lemon replaced Nickle at C.

The height and dominance in the defensive circle was strong with only seven chances all quarter for Marjon thanks to the hard work of Tamblyn and Barker. Drinkell again supported well in mid-court. Injury to Collins brought Nickle back on court and the speed of play from her and Lemon whizzed the ball through the court. 

Unchanged for the second half Liskeard were pushing for a good win. Moloney worked hard in GA, playing well with Lemon and Nickle and feeding the ball into Smale. She netted all her attempts for the quarter and Liskeard extended to a 16-goal lead before Marjon came back. Marjon continued to fight and this disrupted Liskeard who started to tire and lose concentration. The Tigers still won the quarter 8-4 though, going into the last 23-10 in front.

Marjon changed their GK for the final period and the physical defending stopped the Tigers' flow. Marjon pulled the deficit to just nine goals but Liskeard held on.

Smale netted some good long-range attempts but the advantage had definitely swung in Marjon's favour.

A strong final quarter saw them win 7-5 but Liskeard had done enough and secured another win, taking the game 28-17.

Jo Nickle was awarded player of the match for her strength across the court and speed of play.