Match Report | Birmingham Panthers 39 NIC Leeds Rhinos 54

By Tyler-Sue Chapman

NIC Leeds Rhinos opened their Netball Super League campaign with an impressive 39–54 victory over Birmingham Panthers at the University of Worcester in Round 1.

Simone Gordon made her super league debut as she slotted away the Rhinos first goal of the fixture. Birmingham panthers took an early lead 5-2 after just four minuets of play. Defensive efforts from Brown, Visser and Howard saw the score levelled up at 8 a piece heading towards the first Amex super shot period. It was a confident super shot period from the home side which resulted in them leading into the first break of play 13-11. 

Baylis got the second period of play under way with Gordon settling into her first game. Rhinos brought the game back level at 15 all five minutes in the second quarter. Both sides lacked clinicality and possession slipped between both sides leaving the game going goal for goal. Huge defensive efforts from the Rhinos were rewarded by Gordon and Reed resulting in the away side taking a 4 goal advantage at half time. 

Despite not all shots sinking for the Rhinos they increased their advantage to five goals 24-29 after 5 minutes of play of the second half. The home side reduced their deficit to just 2 before a tactical timeout was called by the Rhinos. Panthers called a tactical timeout just seconds before the Amex super shot period whilst behind by 5 goals 28-33. Neither side pulled away during the super shot period but it was again the Rhinos who held the advantage entering the final quarter 30-36. 

Gordon sank the first shot of the final 15 finding her rhythm 31-40. Defensive efforts from the whole squad allowed the Rhinos as the visitors ensured the score board ticked over to reach a 10 goal advantage with 10 minutes left on the clock. Rhinos entered the final super shot period 13 points ahead 35-48. Despite small errors through court the Rhinos charged to victory 39-54. 

NIC Leeds Rhinos Bella Baylis was awarded the Kissimmee player of the match award for her midcourt magic. The Rhinos return to court on Friday 6th March at the Canon medical Arena Sheffield against Soft and Gentle Super Cup champions Loughborough Lightning at 19:30.

Photo Credits: Benjamin Brain Photography