League-leading Buddies are courting success

St Mirren keep their rivals at bay to round off the year in style

St Mirren Netball Club’s Christmas has come early – after securing top spot in the league.

The first team have been in sublime form in the season so far and they have rounded off the year in style as they look to take their title charge into 2018.

After a busy schedule of games, which seen the ties coming thick and fast, the last round of matches for both St Mirren sides have now been completed.

Some tenacious play from the beginning helped them secure a slim victory with a 44-37 victory over an energetic Broomhill side.

The first quarter saw St Mirren having to be at their best to keep their rivals at pay, and play continued to flow at a fast pace at both ends of the court as they both looked to take the lead by half-time.

However, some excellent defensive pressure saw Bronwyn Powell come out with interception after interception in defence. But the St Mirren were able to capitalise and quickly transitioned through the court to convert, resulting in the firsts Christmas number one.

Meanwhile, the club’s second team continue to battle it out in Division Three as they look to mount a run of form in the second half of the season.

Unfortunately, they came up against a tough Claremont side as they went down 14-58.

But that didn’t dampen the spirits with the Paisley side continuing to battle until the final seconds. Some great defence managed to hustle the Claremont shooters at every opportunity – but they couldn’t keep their opponents at bay.

This was backed up by some quick movement and dodging from Emma Butchart and Katrina Kelly in centre, as Saints tried to retain possession.

Some much needed height in the shooting circle was provided by Stephanie Barr, who rose to the challenge of playing out of her normal position.

It was a disappointing way to finish up for the Christmas break, but will come back into the New Year looking to prove themselves on the court.