Match Report | Loughborough Lightning 79 NIC Leeds Rhinos 55

NIC Leeds Rhinos were beaten 79-55 by Loughborough Lightning at the Sir David Wallace Arena on Saturday evening in Round 13 of the Netball Super League season.

Loughborough made a fast start to open an early advantage through Samantha Wallace-Joseph, moving the ball with speed through court and taking control of the contest during the opening exchanges. Rhinos responded with periods of strong attacking play through captain Paige Reed and showed resilience to stay in touch, but the hosts continued to find momentum and extended their lead heading into the first break 21-13. Harriet Jones left the court just 8 minutes into the fixture as she suffered a head knock after an unfortunate trip and was replaced by Simone Gordon for the rest of the match.

The visitors worked hard to settle into the game during the second quarter, producing some improved defensive pressure by duo Yomi Wilson and Sanmarie Visser and passages of patient build-up through the midcourt. However, Lightning’s accuracy in the shooting circle and ability to punish errors allowed them to maintain control and take a significant lead into half-time 36-24.

Rhinos continued to compete after the restart, with encouraging moments in attack and some important gains defensively, but Loughborough’s depth and intensity remained evident. The hosts kept the scoreboard moving with a high shooting percentage and stretched their advantage during the third quarter 54-38.

Despite the deficit, Leeds Rhinos continued to fight through the final period and produced some positive phases of play, refusing to let the intensity drop. The visitors showed determination until the closing whistle, but Lightning closed out the match strongly to secure a 79-55 victory.

The Rhinos now turn their attention to their Birmingham Panthers at the Canon Medical Arena as they look to respond and finish the campaign positively in the final match of the season.

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