Netball signs off for Christmas with a bumper round of festive fixtures

Newbury Netball League players enjoyed their final weekend of fixtures before the winner break, with matches taking on a distinctly festive feel.

In the Steiner Premier League, a dominant Cricketts beat a spirited Vipers 67-48 in a friendly contest that saw players perform like both ‘ballerinas’ and ‘ninja cats’ – their own words.

It was a free-flowing and high-scoring game, with Anna Sukwong Fletcher starring at goal attack for the victorious Cricketts, while Jacq Ambrose proved prolific in an entertaining Vipers performance.

Elsewhere, Academy Sky staved off a late comeback to narrowly get the better of Tadley Witches 52-49.

Sky’s goal attack Elizabeth Brown stole the show with a dominant all-round display, scoring and providing in equal measure.

Eventual victors Sky were never able to establish a comfortable lead as staunch defending from Tadley’s Elisha Hawtin ensured a regular supply of turnovers that almost allowed the Witches to reel in their opponents in a dramatic final quarter.

Meanwhile, there was no stopping wing attack India Daly as Robinson’s Food ran out comfortable 58-34 winners over Academy Royals.

Carley Stump led the way as Academy Steel kept up the pressure at the top of the table with a thumping 41-26 victory over Newbury 4x4 Centre.

A relentless display from Maggie Taylor inspired free-scoring Fusion to an emphatic 61-32 win over Brights.

In Division 1, Hungerford Extras overcame Honesty 58-45 in the safety of Cheam’s indoor courts.

Hungerford’s attacking trio of Molly Terry, Holly Barrett and Sharon Williams proved too much for Honesty, although 14-year-old Katelyn Collins continued to cement her reputation as one of the league’s most exciting players.

Holly Buddle’s all-action performance helped Five Bells to a commanding 40-28 triumph over Altair.

Amanda Irby was central to a superb display by Eclipse as her defending inspired her side to a comprehensive 60-33 victory over Academy Sapphires.