Match Reports: BUCS TROPHY WEDNESDAY

Wednesday 23rd November saw two unusual mid-week fixtures for Edinburgh University Netball clubs 1s and 2s as they took on two English sides in the last 32 of the BUCS trophy.

Edinburgh 2s vs Nottingham 1s

Mid-week fixture saw EUNC 2s face Nottingham Uni first team at home. With little knowledge on the opposition, we prepared ourselves for a tough game, yet definitely went into the warm-up with some confidence from the weekend. The twos perhaps had a somewhat slower start than we would have liked getting into the game and getting used to the style of play required against Nottingham who, from the first whistle, were clearly a very experienced team.

After a good chat of tactics and some encouragement to be stronger and more feisty for the ball from our wonderful coach, Mary Ann, the gap began to close up over the second and third quarters. The team kept their cool and stayed calm which was key playing against a fairly aggressive Nottingham.

The final score was 55-39 to Nottingham, but the match was great to watch and the girls really enjoyed the experience of playing against a top English Uni team. Huge well done to Scarlett Brown who was voted players’ player of the match due to her determination and fantastic circle defence throughout the match. Megan McNair was voted Nottingham’s player of the match with some sweet holds in the circle and some impressive long shots, congrats! Big big thank you to everyone who came down to cheer us on, it was a great booster for us and so great to see so many friendly faces supporting us.

Edinburgh 1s vs Newcastle 1s

Next up on the show court was Edinburgh 1s who faced Newcastle 1s. Edinburgh got off to a strong start and took an early lead in the first 10 minutes however Newcastle fought back and narrowed the score gap to 5. Edinburgh didn't let up in the second quarter and pushed this 5 goal lead to 10 at half time.

Excellent circle defense from Eilidh Reid and Emily Nicholl broke down Newcastle's play in their attacking third. While in Edinburgh's attacking third amazing shooting from Ruby Wilkinson and Kate Meagh extended the 1's lead to almost 20 goals going into the final quarter.

Edinburgh 1s maintained their lead in the final quarter and came out on top, 56-31 FT. The Edinburgh make it through to the last 16 of the BUCS trophy where they will meet Leeds 1s. Edinburgh 1s would like to thank everyone who came down to support on the day. Best of luck ladies!