R6: Stars Vs Dragons

Severn Stars Lose Out to Dragons

Severn Stars succumbed to Celtic Dragons 42-58 after the opposition ran away with the game in the third quarter.

Dragons began the match strongly opening up a lead after the first 15 minutes, but had been unable to extend this up until half-time. However, Stars conceded a further nine goals in the third quarter and despite the team’s best efforts were unable to recover the match.

Stars went into the game, at the University of Worcester Arena last night (Monday, March 7), hoping to come back strongly after a 64-35 defeat away at London Pulse on Saturday (March 5). But it was former Stars goal shooter Georgia Rowe who opened the scoring for her new side after the Dragons’ mid court players were able to overturn play. It wasn’t long before Stars equalised after fast build up play from mid court duo Bethan Dyke and captain Liana Leota found the arms of Katie Harris. She also intercepted Dragons’ mid-court play and was there to tip the ball over to fellow shooter Paige Reed to take the shot. But Dragons continued to pressure Stars after some untouchable play. Harris scored a fast double to reduce the deficit to just six goals as the first quarter drew to a close, 10-16.

Stars Head Coach, Melissa Bessell, brought on Dee Bolakoro and Nicole Humphrys to replace Iman Thomas and Summer Artman. Dragons were quick off the blocks as they looked to increase their lead, but Humphrys had an immediate impact, flying in to intercept a Dragons’ attack and turn over play. Stars continued to grow into the quarter as the mid court duo of Dyke and Leota once again linked up to create a fast rhythm of play, with the quarter ending scores level, 23-29 at the half-time interval.

The third quarter started brightly for Stars with a good move from centre Dyke to find space, passing to Reed who converted. However, Dragons began to run away with the game after drawing a 10-goal lead with four consecutive goals from Rowe. Stars looked to change up the defence, as Herdman and Bolakoro made way for Thomas and Artman. Dragons’ Shona O’Dwyer battled with Thomas in the mid court, but it was the visitor who came out with the ball. The quarter ended with Dragons further in front, 30-45.

Harris and Michelle Drayne entered the court for the remaining 15 minutes as Stars looked to reduce the deficit. Rowe held off Artman to receive the pass, but the home side was not giving up and instantly responded with a quick run of play. Elisha New entered the court, injecting her fast and energetic pace into the game for Stars. A fast one-two between Leota and Reed saw Stars convert the final goal, but it wasn’t enough as Dragons took the win 58-42.

Stars, a franchise jointly owned by the University of Worcester and University of Gloucestershire, will look to bounce back at the next game, at home to Leeds Rhinos on Friday, March 11, 7pm. Tickets are available at www.severnstars.co.uk.

 

It was great to chat to @SevernStars defender @Summer_Artman after the match @universityarena last night. It was a defeat but she was Stars' player of the match. Listen to the interview here 👇 #VNSL2022 #netball https://t.co/I2uStjntT5

— nicky price (@nickyprice) March 8, 2022

Match Report : Severn Stars
Image : Clive Jones PR