London Pulse 49 Rhinos Netball 48

By Saskia Holland

Leeds Rhinos travelled to the Crystal Palace Arena to take on London Pulse in round 12 of the Netball Super league. After a well fought game from both sides, the home side came out on top by just 1 goal (49-48). 

Cassie Howard started with the ball in hand but a held ball call against Zoe Davies resulted in London Pulse going ahead to start the game. Further errors in play resulted in London Pulse gaining an early lead (5-0), but a defensive turnover allowed Joyce Mvula to put a goal up (5-1). Pulse extended their lead but a held ball call against Alicia Scholes allowed Rhinos to shorten the gap (13-10). A contact against Halimat Adio allowed the visitors to add another goal to end the quarter (14-13).

Amelia Hall entered the court at GA. A throw in, in favour of Rhinos allowed Leeds to go level and then another goal for Mvula put her side in the lead for the first time in the game (17-18). However, a contact call went against Mvula and Berri Neil scored for Pulse. Both teams continued to convert off their centre passes but a forced misfeed from Howard allowed Rhinos to take the lead by three (23-26) which was extended to 25-29 at half time.

The second half started with goals for both sides, but a forced error from Pulse’ defence resulted in a backline which was converted by the shooters. A rebound for Geva Mentor finished in a goal for Mvula (28-31), however an interception for Scholes allowed Pulse to add to their score. A contact call against Caroline O’Hanlon in the attacking third allowed Pulse to go level (31-31). After a highly contested quarter, Pulse gained a 2 goal lead going into the final quarter (40-38).

The final 15 minutes started with Davies winning ball in the defensive circle which allowed Rhinos to go level with the home side (40-40). Caroline O’Hanlon exited the court with Celyn Emanuel taking the WA bib.

Mvula was called for contact after a missed shot and Pulse go level after a goal for Neil (44-44). A held ball under the post for Mvula allowed Pulse to take the lead 46-44. Amid a turnover in the final 5 seconds, London Pulse end up taking the lead 49-48.

Next Friday (10th May) Rhinos Netball are back home against Saracens Mavericks at the EIS in Sheffield.