Lightning see off Storm for the second time this term
AS HOSTS BATTLE TO CLOSE THE GAP
LOUGHBOROUGH Lightning held off a second-quarter fight-back to record their second victory over Surrey Storm in the 2023 Netball Super League season.
The 46-64 away win for Lightning means Storm’s venue will not be used as part of the semi-finals.
Lightning defender Fran Williams was making her first appearance on court after being selected as a Vitality Rose for the Netball World Cup in Cape Town this summer. The fixture was also her 100th NSL appearance, as well as Hannah Williams’ 50th run-out for Lightning.
With the hosts trailing 10-19 , the second quarter started with two points from Storm.
The gap in the score began to close slightly as both teams worked hard to make conversions. Captain Nat Panagarry led Lightning well as she ran through the attacking third to get the ball back into Mary Cholhok.
Lightning ended the quarter 25-33 ahead and never looked like surrendering their advantage.
Lightning coach Vic Burgess said: “For us it was about building a good start and then being able to capitalise on that throughout the game.
“The second quarter Storm came back at us, and they won that quarter by one so that’s a credit to them. At half time we just spoke about not getting involved in drama and making sure that we’re just sticking to the plan and doing what we do best.”
Gilbert Player of the Match Fran
At half time we just spoke about not getting involved in drama
VISITORS DOMINANT
Williams said: “It’s just amazing to win again and in my 100th appearance! I’m so grateful to both the clubs at Wasps and Loughborough, they’ve given me opportunities in the Super League, and they’re clubs that I’m really proud to play for and represent.
“Thanks to everyone for backing me, it’s been such a good contest and I’m just so excited for the summer.
“For now, I’m just focussing on each game with Loughborough and if we can keep putting out performances like that then I’ll be superproud.”
Loughborough Lightning are back in action at the Copper Box Arena on Saturday against table toppers London Pulse. First centre pass is scheduled for 6pm.