Charnwood Warriors win National Two debut
CHARNWOOD Warriors have made a triumphant debut in the National Premier League Division Two - 18 months after they were promoted from Division Three.
The Loughborough-based side was promoted in March 2020 just before the pandemic started and have been waiting to get back on the court and competitive action.
Head coach Sam Griffin said they had worked hard to retain all their players despite many starting universities.
As well as retaining players they have strengthened their squad with
England U21 players Ella Bowen and Emma Thacker, as well as former New Zealand international Jo Tripp.
Griffin said: “We have worked really hard throughout the covid pandemic to maintain training online and keep the squad together. I believe we have great depth this season to cover any gaps when players are unable to come back from university or are on international duties. We also have some exceptional young talent within the club.”
Their first match saw them play host to Norfolk side Thoroughbreds who were promoted to Premier League 2 with Warriors from the 2018-2019 season.
Warriors started the match with experienced heads Robinson and
Griffin leading the way to settle the nerves and the pace of the game, the first quarter was well contested with little between the two teams but Warriors just edging the lead 11-10.
The start of the second quarter Warriors pick up the pace with Bowen, Brown and McGlynn linking strongly in defence to put Thoroughbreds under pressure and create turn over opportunities for Warriors who took the lead 25-19 at half time.
The third quarter Warriors moved forward again with Brock-Taylor entering the game and bringing great speed and linking with Alexandar to bring the ball through court. Thacker continued to remain composed in the shooting circle rewarding Warriors work rate with goals. Warriors headed into the final quarter leading 41-26.
Welsh entered the game bringing her experience keeping the play nice and controlled whilst Lount came into the defence to continue to apply pressure. Young guns and debutants to the Premier lLague Castledine and Watts got their first taste of a physical and fast-paced match, both settled in well keeping Warriors firmly in control and took the win 56-33.
Jaz Brown was Warriors player of the match for her high work rate in defence and the amount of pressure she put on Thoroughbreds. A great first match for the Warriors in National Premier League 2.
Nest up is an away trip to Leeds to face Leeds Athletic who have come down from League One.