NIC Leeds Rhinos Netball 55 Manchester Thunder 69

By Tyler-Sue Chapman

NIC Leeds Rhinos suffered defeat in the second derby game of the season 55-69 when they faced Manchester Thunder in round 11 of the netball super league at the first direct arena in Leeds on Sunday 25th May. 
 
Manchester Thunder took advantage of some early errors made by the Rhinos which opened up a six-goal advantage for the visitors before Joyce Mvula slotted the Rhinos second shot of the game away after seven minutes of play. Mvula utilised the super shot period and slotted away a two-point shot just after the buzzer sounded. Despite Mvula’s shooting success within the super shot period the visitors entered the first break 12 goals ahead (12-24).
 
After another three minutes of play Lauren Palmer made her first change of the game with Sophie Egbaran picking up the goal attack bib. Defensive efforts from the Rhinos were rewarded and the deficit reduced to nine at the halfway point of the quarter. Jess Haynes entered the court in the goal defence position. Egbaran and Mvula confidently slotted away super shots which saw the score sit 28-34 at half time. 
 
Rosie Harris started the third quarter in the centre position. Both sides created turnovers showing intent, but the deficit remained at six for the first five minutes of the second half. It was the visitors Manchester Thunder who took the first advantage from Rhinos errors and continued to build on their lead. NIC Leeds Rhinos used their tactical time out as Thunder reached an eleven-goal advantage with just over eight minutes left of the third quarter. Ash Dekker returned to the centre position and Harriet Jones in the goal attack bib as the super shot buzzer sounded. Manchester Thunder entered the final break holding a twelve-goal advantage, 40-52.
 
Cassie Howard earned ball which was converted but the visitors remained successful in their shooting circle. ‘Let’s go Rhinos’ echoed around the arena which gave the on-court squad confidence and momentum as Mentor gained possession. Haynes took the front space and earned ball which the Rhinos converted. Thunder utilised their tactical time out and play recommenced with just over six and a half minutes left on the clock. Howard was given a warning from the umpire which resulted in Harris returning to the court, this time at wing defence. Despite a valiant effort from the Rhinos, it was the visitors who took the win 55-69.
 
NIC Leeds Rhinos return to the road for round 12 as they travel to the capital to face London Pulse next Sunday (June 1st).