Charnwood Warriors secure top flight status
CHARNWOOD Warriors have maintained their place in the National Premier League One after a rollercoaster season which ended in a narrow 67-65 defeat against Grangetown.
Going into the final match of the campaign both teams needed two crucial points to stay up and
both teams came out firing, producing some excellent netball.
Young shooter Scoggins started impressively for the Warriors, remaining composed and available under pressure whilst connecting in with the experience of Liversiedge. McGlynn started in the best form turning 4 balls in the first 15 minutes and a thrilling first quarter finishing even at 17-17.
The second quarter both teams looked strong, with Grangetown’s shooting end utilising their years of experience, Warriors Allen and Tooms continued to work tirelessly to put them under pressure, whilst another of Warriors youngsters, Smith battled it out in a physically contest against her WD and another show stopping quarter ending 34-34.
This game continued to be tireless in the third quarter, high scoring from both teams, Grangetown edge the lead by one in the dying seconds to take the lead 50-49. Warriors were still within the game, it was all going to come down to the final 15minutes, Haines, McGlynn and Tooms managed an earlier turn over to put the Warriors then the match was all squarewith both teams clinical in attack, Van Neirop at C working tirelessly.
Two errors at a critical moment from Warriors cost them the game, with the experience of Grangetown just overpowering the younger side to take the win 67-65.
Despite the loss, Warriors picked up two points to finish the season in seventh spot and secure their place in the league for the 2024/25 season.
Player head-coach Sam Griffin said: “It’s been a rollercoaster of a season for the Warriors, so much to be proud of with wins against league winners and long time leading club Oldham.
“More young players exposed whilst giving opportunities for Thacker, Liversiedge, Brown, BrockTaylor, Haines to be ready for the next platform of NSL.
“We are proud of the squad, only in its second season in this league for staying up in what was one of the leagu’es most competitive seasons. Warriors will continue to grow with experience and come back better, whilst hopefully seeing the return of some of their senior players next season.”