Cheadle Hulme pair into semis
CHEADLE Hulme School (CHS) is the only school in the country to have two age groups through to the semi-finals of the Independent Schools Netball Cup.
Winning their quarterfinal match against Royal Russell in Croydon 31-30, Cheadle’s U19s now join the School’s U13s in the competition as one of the top four teams in the country.
CHS Netball Coach, Olivia Barber said: “The team played with composure and discipline throughout, even with physical opposition and a close score line. We always aspire to get to the finals but know every game will be tough. In both our top 16 and quarter final we have only won by one.
“The girls are dedicated to training and have the desire to win. They are a strong unit and work for each other. We know all opposition will be tough but have so many strong options within our squad we can adapt to anyone we come across.”
In the nail-biting quarter-final, CHS went two down in the third quarter before taking a lead of five in the final quarter. Royal Russell pulled it back to level until CHS took the lead with just 45 seconds left on the clock.
With 35 seconds remaining, CHS’s opposition had possession. CHS defended well and after Royal Russell made an error, CHS took possession with Zoe Mallinder (captain) and Grace Mills (vice-captain) taking control, dictating play until the end.