Cojags 1 v Thoroughbreds

The game started off at an extremely fast pace and caught Cojags off guard as they struggled to settle into their game. The girls worked hard in their whole court zone to try and break down the oppositions play which was slick. The first quarter finished 16-6 to Thoroughbreds and Cojags knew they would have to fight hard to stay in the game.
Cojags were able to settle into their game more in the second quarter as the box formation began to work and the wall on the centre pass became more effective, pushing the 3s rule on the Thoroughbred centres. Anya, Kerri and Maiya were able to provide lots of turnover balls as a result of interceptions and tips. They worked tirelessly to bring the ball down the court to the shooters and provided constant support on the third line. Charlie at GA worked the outside of the D well, trying to draw the tight defence constantly on Emma at GS. Cojags’ play was now looking more fluid but finished the quarter still behind, 31-19.
A good half time talk lead Cojags to a new found energy as they started the third quarter with a bang. They decided to mix things up defensively, marking man on man down court which proved more effective. Cojags were able to close on the Thoroughbred lead with excellent circle edge feeds from Jen at C and Fleur at WA to Ellie and Emma who confidently scored goal after goal. Cojags kept their centre passes safe and tried to capitalise on turnover balls enabling them to come within 6 of the Thoroughbreds score. However, the relentless tight defence and excellent shooting from Thoroughbreds saw them pull away again, finishing the quarter 40-31.
The final quarter was exciting to say the least. Balls were flying all over the place and so were players as multiple interceptions were made. Cojags were able to close in on Thoroughbreds lead again to 4 goals, but the opposition were able to remain strong and not let that gap close any further. The girls worked hard right until the final whistle as the game finished 54-46 to Thoroughbreds.

A highly contested and physical match. Not the result that we were hoping for, but all 8 players must be congratulated on their performance and hard work.

Special thanks to Barbs for stepping in as coach and for her normal roles as manager, sweet provider and number one supporter.

POM: Kerri