Last updated at 15:06, Thursday, 15 May 2008

Hexham netball team have had a great start to the summer league.

Hexham 21, Prudhoe B 9

The ladies were left disappointed at the end of the Northumberland Division 4 Winter League after they finished second for the second consecutive year, narrowly missing out on the title after losing only one game!

Hexham would very much like to make up for this disappointment and go one better in the summer league.This however will be a tough challenge.

This year Hexham have been drawn in Northumberland Division 3.

The first match of the season a local derby against a well-established Prudhoe B team. The Hexham ladies were well aware Prudhoe is an established club with many strong players.

The two teams have never faced each other in a competitive match and Hexham were unsure what to expect on a sunny but chilly evening.

Prudhoe started the game well and scored the first two goals, over turning the Hexham centre pass.

However, Hexham did not panic and fought back to bring the score to 4-2 in their favour at quarter time.

Hexham should have perhaps led by more had it not been for some excellent defending in the circle from the Prudhoe defence.

The slight breeze was also being blamed for some off target shooting by the usually reliable Jill Griffiths and Amy Porteous.

Hexham managed to pull away during the second and third quarters and began to settle into the game.

Some excellent mid court play from Lisa Clark ad Steph Watkins ensured the ball reached the shooters.

The Hexham defence was once again strong, with Jenny Porteous and Natalie Maddison preventing the ball from reaching the Prudhoe net.

Hexham captain Gene-vieve White also continued to pop up out of nowhere to reclaim the ball and produce some great interceptions frustrating the Prudhoe shooters.

At half time, Hexham brought on Catherine Dixon who is a young, skilful player who can play anywhere on the court.

Prudhoe also made some changes during the half time break and managed to pull back a few goals but this was not enough to take victory.

The final score was 21-9 to Hexham Ladies.

Player of the match for Hexham Ladies was Amy Porteous for some excellent shooting and link up play.

The Hexham club is beginning to thrive with many new players joining in training.

It is hoped a second team will be formed and entered in a fun league played at All Saints College in West Denton.

Anyone interested in playing in a team or wanting to improve their fitness and have some fun along the way is welcome to come to training.

Training takes place on Tuesdays, 7pm-8.30pm, Haydon Bridge High School, Sports Hall.

First published at 13:34, Thursday, 15 May 2008
Published by http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk