Charnwood Rutland warriors travelled across to Norfolk this weekend to play Thoroughbreds in their bid to stay top of National Premier Three. In a hard-fought match in which Warriors didn't take the lead until the last ten minutes, the team's determination and resilience was put to the test as they battled to a narrow 46-44 victory.

Warriors settled into the first quarter challenging Thoroughbreds' quick passages of play, however Thoroughbreds were the stronger team to start with clinical play and despite the Warriors defensive unit of Oakman, Magee, and Hymas working together to shut down their strong attack, it wasn’t enough and Thoroughbreds took the 1st quarter 14-10

In the second quarter Thoroughbreds continued to challenge the Warriors young side and extended their lead by 7. With changes made after the first quarter Warriors needed to adapt to the new combinations and settle back in to the game, it still didn’t click so Rachel Duckers entered half way through the quarter at Goal Attack and immediately linked well with Jaydene Robinson to improve the attacking end with the half time score 26-19 to Thoroughbreds.

After a motivational team talk at half time and knowing their spot to top of the division was under threat Warriors came out fighting. Making some crucial changes to bring the game back within reach of Thoroughbreds who began to get rattled by Warriors' fightback. Sam Griffin and Katie Welsh's experience of playing together for years payed off with them re-settling the attack and utilising the back up with McGlynn their confidence began to grow. As a team Warriors' pressure and hard work resulted in many turnovers converted to goal, leading to Warriors winning the 3rd quarter and closing the gap to 34-33 going into the final 15 minutes.

In the final quarter, both teams battled until the last seconds. Warriors showed their resilience and determination throughout this quarter to convert their turnovers and come out on top with Gallacher remaining calm under the post. This was a highly competitive, physically tough match in which both teams pushed each other to their limits and showed some outstanding netball. Warriors narrowly took the win 46-44, retaining their place at the top of the table and Warriors look forward to an exciting re-match with Thoroughbreds in the New Year. Warriors' final game before the Christmas break is next Sunday at home (Brooksby Sports Centre) against Leyton and they will be looking for revenge having suffered an opening day defeat to the London-based side at the start of the season.

Squad: Ellie Gallacher, Rachel Duckers, Sam Griffin, Katie Welsh, Jaydene Robinson, Corey McGlynn, Abi Hymas, Mel Oakman, Michelle Magee