Omega Netball Club News

Sep 23
0

Omega 2 vs Cheshunt – Saturday 22nd September 2018

By | Herts League Match Reports | No Comments

Today, Omega 2 faced Cheshunt, who were  demoted from division 3 in the East Region League and relegated back to division 1 in the Herts County League.   Omega feel fairly confident with a squad of 8 for the game, but are conscious of how the game can go.    The starting squad is GS – Hannah Brown, GA – Sophie Humphrey, WA – Leanne Mansfield, C – Nicola Rantell, WD – Ruby Brett, GD – Claire Daw and GK – Lousie Cousins, with Molly Brett starting on the bench.

Both teams take the court and Cheshunt start the game.  They take the ball straight to their shooter, however fail to convert it on the first attempt.  Omega take the rebound and begin to move the ball back down court, but a mishap in the mid court area sees Cheshunt win back the ball, gaining a 2nd chance and this time they succeed with scoring.  Cheshunt steal the ball from Omega as our WA goes offside in our shooting circle, but the Cheshunt GS footworks as she positions herself to shoot, allowing Omega to take back ball ownership.  The team demonstrate great ball skills, controlling the ball down court and finding the shooters for an equaliser.  Omega make several errors this quarter with three footwork calls and three offside calls against Omega attack around the shooting circle, giving Cheshunt the opportunity to gain the ball.  However, defensive play by the Omega attack, with strong ball marking allows them to quickly win back the  balls, gaining the goals to take an early lead.  This quarter also sees GD, Claire Daw and C, Nicola Rantell intercepting many balls from their oppostion, but as quick as they win it, the team error resulting in rapid return of possession to Cheshunt.  Leanne picks up an early caution from the umpire for persistent obstruction in the final minutes of the quarter.  In the last few seconds of the quarter, realising the countdown, Nicola feeds a fantastic ball into Hannah Brown who scores the final goal of the quarter just before the whistle and the opening quarter ends with a score of 18-6 to Omega.

As a result of the early caution, Leanne takes the bench and is replaced by Molly Brett at WA.   The team are advised to play steady and maintain control and they return to court to start the second quarter.    The team are on fire as they take the first 5 goals of the quarter.   Claire Daw continues to intercept the ball well and solid ball play allows the team to find their shooters and score the goals.  A wild ball from Omega into their shooting circle sees Sophie Humphrey demonstrate speed and agility as she drives deep towards the goal line, taps the ball as she is mid-air, ensuring it remains court bound and finds Hannah Brown, who rewards Sophie’s efforts with the goal.   The team appear determined this quarter, with Sophie and Nicola intercepting several balls, Claire and Louise picking up some rebounds and circle interceptions, whilst mid-court players Ruby and Nicola both hunt the loose balls well.  A couple of errors made with one centre pass not received, inaccurate passing at the shooting circle edge and more footwork calls give Cheshunt opportunities to claw back goals which they achieve on all occasions.   Twelve seconds to go and it’s Omega’s final centre pass, but slow movement to the centre circle results in Omega being called for ‘delayed play’ and Cheshunt punish with the final goal leaving the half time score at 38-18 to Omega.

Another change to the team sees Ruby Brett take the bench and Leanne Mansfield take the WD position.  Cheshunt start the quarter, but fail to convert the shot and Claire Daw wins the rebound.  The team take the ball to Hannah, but a footwork call as she positions to shoot gives the ball back to Cheshunt.    Cheshunt fail to convert the goal once more.  Louise wins the rebound and this time Omega secure the goal.  Omega are called for a couple of contacts and a replay of a ball, all of which prove costly errors, as each time Cheshunt punish with goals.   A chance for Omega to pull back a goal as Cheshunt’s GA breaks at their centre pass, but the feed from the circle edge to the shooter goes off the goal line and possession is lost to Cheshunt, who score.   Some great steals are seen this quarter by Leanne, Nicola, Molly, Sophie and Claire, alongside rebounds by Louise, but Omega make 10 fatal errors in the quarter, with fluffed passes, more footwork calls and a couple of ball handling calls, which allow Cheshunt to remain in the game and take the 3rd quarter 16-13, reducing the lead by 3 goals going into the final quarter.

Hannah Brown takes the bench and Ruby Brett steps into the GS position.   Cheshunt start the quarter again and this time, secure the first goal.  Sophie breaks on Omega’s centre pass, but the ball is quickly won back by Claire Daw and safe passing by the team, taking the ball to Ruby at GS to reward the team with the goal.   The first few minutes sees Molly and Claire winning possession from the opposition and Sophie and Ruby securing the goals.  However the quarter turns as Leanne picks up a warning for persistent obstruction and footwork,  Louise picks up a caution for unnatural stance when positioning herself next to the shooters when the penalty is set and a third caution is awarded to Nicola for persistent obstruction, all in the same half of the court!   The team are uneasy in their play as they are desperate not to pick up any more cautions, but they press on with some great feeds into Ruby in the circle and the pressure is maintained in defense with tight marking and ball hunting.   The remaining 8.9 seconds on the clock and Omega attempt to secure the final goal of the game, but fail to find their shooter with their feeds into the circle and Cheshunt prevent their last attempt.    Cheshunt once again win the quarter 18-15, but the 20 goal early lead in the 1st half of the game proves too much to claw back and the end score is 66-51 to Omega.

A game of many infringement calls, resulting in a lack of flow and constant disruption.  Omega were unsettled by the amount of calls and cautions, which was evident in their play, but they secure the win which positions them mid-table in a Division they have only just been promoted to…an achievement to be proud of!

 

 

Sep 16
0

Omega Youths vs Hornets – Sat 15th Sept 2018

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Youths vs Hornets 15th Sept 2018 - HDNL

Their second game of the new season and Omega Youths meet Hornets 1 in the HDNL fixtures.   With one of the reserves being called in to work at short notice, Holly Bennett steps up as reserve and Paul Merrick obliges as scorer.  An additional change to the team mid-week with Ellie Reynolds set to play out of position at WA, due to another work call.

The team take the court and struggle to maintain ball ownership to find their shooters and Hornets capitalise on the pressure they apply, taking a swift lead.    Omega take time to settle and show signs of fatigue early in the game, with a request to leave the court at the first interval, but show flashes of controlled play.  Advice is  given to the team on ball placement, confidence  to shoot when in the shooting circle and  timing the move for the pass.

With reserves, Holly Bennett and Rachel Toye taking the court at C and WD for the 2nd quarter and some advise given by their coaches, the team are a little more controlled, but Hornets prove a tough opposition once more as they increase their lead in the game further.

Millie Pickard and Louise Merrick return to court in the 3rd quarter with rested legs, replacing Jodie Gill at GD and Ellie Reynolds at WA.  The team think about their passing more, and some steady and solid play is evident, with GK Lauren Lee reading the ball well and picking up some great balls through interception in the circle.

The final quarter and the final change to the squad sees Ellie Reynolds taking the centre position, a position unfamiliar to Ellie and never played in a game before, but she takes up the challenge with gusto and provides a solid link in the mid court.  Additionally, Jodie Gill returns to court, replacing Rachel and the rested legs result in more controlled feet.  The final score for the game is 39-14 to Hornets.

Evidence of some solid play during the game with longer passes and movement into space is encouraging.    Fitness is key for working on in the coming weeks, along with circle holding and marking…some key pointers for training!

Sep 16
1

Omega 2 vs SAS Reds – 15th Sept 2018

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After a fantastic win to start the season last week, the team know that the pressure is on to deliver in the same vein.   This week, Omega 2 take on SAS Reds, who were 2nd in the Div 1 league table last season, so they know it’s going to be no walk-over.  With a couple of the team unavailable, Claire Statham, who hasn’t played on a regular basis since April,  steps in to play in defence and Leanne Mansfield joins in attack, both of whom are playing their first game of the season.   Omega take the starting centre pass and for the first few minutes, the game goes goal for goal, until Omega falter, breaking at their centre pass, which allows SAS to take an early lead.  Eight minutes in and SAS are leading 9-4 but a great rebound by GK, Louise Cousins gives Omega an opportunity to close the lead and the team take advantage of the steal.  The final 48 seconds of the quarter, with the score at 16-9 and it’s SAS centre pass.  Tight defensive play by Omega sees Louise intercepting the feed to the SAS GS and Omega are given another opportunity to reduce the lead, however the team fail to convert the much needed goal, but manage to prevent SAS from scoring before the whistle.

A change of defensive strategy in the 2nd quarter and Hannah Brown moves from WD to GS, swapping places with Ruby Brett.  The team have the advantage of starting the quarter again and they demonstrate great control in playing the safe ball until they find their GS, who secures the goal.  SAS WA footworks on the next centre pass and Omega capitalise on their error and manage to claw back 3 consecutive goals to open the 2nd quarter, reducing the difference to 4 goals. Unfortunately, the rest of the quarter doesn’t flow in the same manner and basic errors result in SAS punishing the team at every opportunity.

Another change to the team at half time, sees an unwell Nicola Rantell leave the court, Claire Statham moving from defense to pick the centre position and injured Andrea Kinninmonth taking the court, again for the first time this season.  The game starts with Omega breaking at their centre pass and this continues relentlessly throughout the quarter, with all players at the traverse line making this basic error at least once in the quarter.  This allowed SAS to open the lead radically, not only securing goals at their own centre pass, but punishing Omega for their continuous infringements, resulting in Omega’s heads dropping and  SAS increasing the lead by 13 goals as a result and ending the 3rd quarter 34-47.

The final quarter and a final change sees Nicola Rantell re-entering the court at WD and Ruby Brett taking the bench.  Omega have a 13 goal lead to close, but a pep talk from the coach sees the team returning from the break with more fight and determination, but with a 13 goal lead, it’s an almighty task that the team face.   This quarter, the team are more disciplined and controlled in their play and the quarter goes goal for goal throughout.  A much better display of play from Omega sees them maintain the status quo on the lead, however unable to reduce it, ending the game with a final score of 49-62 to SAS.

The score does not justify the court play in general, with Omega allowing their opposition to take the game with several basic errors which cost them the game.  A nervous and tense third quarter, proved costly, but one to learn from.  Omega had several new combinations today, but as per the beginning of  last season, the team need to get to know each other’s game and gel for the rest of the season.

Sep 09
1

Omega 2 vs Equals – Saturday 8th Sept 2018

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The first game of the season for Omega 2 and it’s a Herts County Game. Gaining promotion to Division 1, having just missed out on the top spot of the 2nd Division table at the end of last season, Omega are set to face Equals, who finished 4th place in Div 1 last season, so they’re unsure of their fate.   A new team for the game with the introduction of newcomers, Ruby Brett at GS and Nicola Rantell at C and a couple of the squad missing, results in some players starting out of their usual position.

Omega start the game with the opening centre pass, securing the first goal of the game.  Equals struggle to control their play to start the quarter and Omega capitalise on it, taking an early 5 goal lead.  Omega settle quickly and the ball is well controlled by Nicola and Molly as they bring it down court, connecting well with both Sophie and Ruby to secure the goals, allowing the team to hold on to their lead for majority of the quarter, but a Equals begin to claw it back.  A break by Omega GA at our centre pass allows Equals close the gap to 3 goals and the next centre pass is theirs, from which secure their goal, closing the lead even further.   Claire Daws reads the game well and leaps to great height, intercepting the ball in the oppositions shooting circle, giving Omega the advantage once more.  With 40 seconds remaining, Equals are quick to pick up a loose ball in our shooting circle and punish with a goal.  The final 18 seconds and it’s Equals taking the final centre pass, but Omega apply the pressure and manage to prevent the goal, ending the quarter with a score of 16-13 to Omega.

Omega take the first centre pass of the 2nd quarter and settle nicely to take the first goal once again.   Equals error on their centre pass, giving Omega a second opportunity at goal, but we fail to hold on to the ball.  The team all play well, holding the lead throughout, but Equals are fighting back and close the score down to 2 goals difference, making the bench and spectators nervous, but that’s short-lived.  The team tighten up, read the game well, resulting in superb interceptions from Nicola Rantell and Claire Daws, allowing Omega to open the game once more.   Fantastic marking of the ball by Hannah Brown at WD in the final few minutes, forces Equals to error and Nicola is quick to pick up the ball and win ownership for Omega.  The first half of the game is a great opener for the team and their teamwork on court has paid off with the first half ending with an 8 goal lead and a score of 33-25 to Omega.

A switch at half time sees Hannah Brown reverting to her usual GS position and Ruby taking up WD.  An unsettled start to the second half of the game, but the team soon adjust and they begin to force their opposition to error.  Omega swiftly take control and the change of tactic at half time sees a much tighter defence played in the circle by Louise Cousins and Claire Daw, with Equals not so certain on feeding their shooting circle.  Omega maintain an 8 goal lead throughout the quarter, increasing it further in the latter part.  An attempt to increase it further with a final goal as the last centre pass is taken with just 10 seconds remaining, but Equals double up on our GS, intercepting the final attempt of the quarter and preventing the goal and the 3rd quarter ends with a score of 50-40.

The final quarter and Omega are keen to secure the game with steady, controlled play, which they maintain and increase their lead.  Equals break on their centre pass, which Omega are quick to punish and take the goal, taking the score to  53-40 to Omega with the first three centre passes.  We sustain the pressure on Equals both down the court and in the defensive circle, forcing errors on their opposition.  The whole team look comfortable on court and their confidence is evident as they approach the final whistle.  The feeds into Hannah at GS are spot on and the conversion rate from our shooters matches.    With 9 seconds remaining in the game, Omega make a final attempt to secure a goal, but they can’t quite make it.  The game ends with a fantastic high score of 72-53 and a very happy team.

A superb start to the season with all players giving their all and committing to the game.  A well fought game throughout by all and a great to watch the team play a controlled game in their first match together and their first game in Division 1.

Apr 15
2

Omega 2 vs AFN 3 – Sunday 15th April 2018

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Omega 2 vs AFN 3 - Sunday 15th April 2018

The final game of the season for Herts League Division 2 and it’s a battle for the top of the table between Omega 2 and AFN 3. With regular GS Hannah Brown missing from the squad, Chloe D’Arcy steps up to fill the shooting role. A great turnout of supporters for the important game and more benches are needed.

With a squad of 8, Lisa Short takes the bench for the first quarter. The adrenaline is buzzing as a result of the fantastic England win over Australia earlier today and the team are up for giving it their best shot, competing for the ball at every opportunity, often penalised by the umpires for their efforts, with a caution given early to WD, Molly Brett for persistent contact, followed swiftly by a warning before the end of the quarter. The whole team defend hard, earning 12 turnovers in the first quarter, but some simple errors with breaks at centre pass and AFN winning more possession their way, proving costly. 90% accuracy in the shooting circle from GS, Sophie Humphry and GA, Chloe D’Arcy isn’t enough for Omega to win the quarter, as it ends 9-16 to AFN.

A change in the 1st interval sees Molly taking the bench for the remainder of the game as the chance of a suspension could be too risky for the game. Lisa Short takes up the WD position and the game restarts. Omega continue to give their all to the game with more great defending throughout the court and another superb shooting quarter with 94% conversion, sees 15 of the attempted 16 shots scored and Omega winning the quarter 15-14, closing the lead by 1 goal by half time (score of 24-30).

The team are advised to think about the simple option, continue to go for the ball at every opportunity and put every shot up when the ball is in the circle.  A strategic change in the defence sees Andrea Kinninmonth and Julie Stanbridge swapping positions in the circle. Both teams return to court, ready to fight for the game and it continues in the same contested vein as in the first half. Omega fail to turnover the game as much as in the earlier quarters and more errors are made overall. AFN are quick to punish the errors and open up the lead by a further 3 goals, resulting in the score of 36-45 to AFN going into the final quarter.

Omega are reminded that the game is not lost in the last interval of the game and all players appear determined to give all they’ve got to the bitter end. Once again Omega fail to turnover ball possession as much this quarter, but also make very few errors. The game is a battle of the shooters, each team accurate in converting the goals when they have the opportunity. As much as the team give 100% to the game, the lead proves too much and AFN take the game 63-52.

Whilst the game was lost, the Omega team should feel proud of their performance and their achievement throughout the season. Achieving 2nd place on the table in their first season in division 2, is fantastic! Usually, 2nd place would result in promotion for the 2nd year running, but with Cheshunt 1 being demoted from East Region League, we rely on Harpenden getting through the Regional Play-offs to determine our fate.

A big thank you to Chloe D’Arcy for plugging the gap whenever we’ve needed her this season and playing brilliantly on every occasion…we couldn’t have achieved 2nd place without you! Another big shout out to the supporters not only from today, but those that have turned out regularly over the season…the difference you make to us players is amazing!

Apr 08
0

Omega 1 vs Cranfield – Saturday 7th April 2018

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Omega vs Cranfield - 7thh April 2018

The final East Region game is a re-arranged game from the days of the snow on 3rd March, with a fixture against Bedfordshire based team, Cranfield.  The team have a bare seven players, resulting in Sophie Cockrill taking the C position and Hannah Sell replacing her at WA.  Second team’s Molly Brett steps up to support the team as a bench player to ease the pressure and the team are also aware that they only need a single point from the game to take the top table spot.

Cranfield start the game but immediately loose possession as their first pass of the ball traverses the side line. Omega start the game well in the opening minutes, punishing Cranfield’s nervous starting minutes by taking the first four goals of the game. But Cranfield soon settle down and begin to control their play, with their GA displaying great accuracy in her shooting, which allows them to maintain a tight grip on Omega through the opening quarter, just one goal behind them deep into the quarter. However, Omega’s GK, Phoebe Gillen contends hard for the ball, taking a couple of superb interceptions in the opposition’s shooting circle.  As is often the case, each interception is short lived as Cranfield quickly regain ball ownership, with the first ball rolling off her fingers and the second being a great back ball to the edge of the circle, but Cranfield being more eager to gain ownership, read the pass well, driving to meet the ball where Omega stood watching.   Her partner in crime, GD, Sam Abbott is as tight with her defending, winning 6 turnovers between them. In the final minutes of the quarter, with a score of 14-12 to Omega, Cranfield’s GA breaks at their centre pass, which proves costly and allows Omega to break a small lead once more, winning the quarter 17-13.

During the interval, the coach gives a strong talk to the team to tighten up their game and think about their passing. This time it’s Omega at the first centre pass, but as was the case with the first quarter, the first centre pass is doomed, with a held ball infringement on Omega giving possession to Cranfield, who are unable to maintain ownership as Omega’s WD, Claire Daw wins back the ball mid court and this time Omega swiftly take to goal. Omega then show a more skilful display of netball and begin to play their usual game, managing to convert the first six goals of the quarter. The rest of the quarter continues in the same vein, resulting in a further 12 goals being scored and limiting the opposition to 9, continuing with tight play from all players which resulted in 9 turnovers in the quarter.  GA, Emma Maidment notices that the last few seconds of the quarter are on the clock as she launches the ball to her shooting partner, GS, Charlotte Jordan, but the Cranfield GK reads this and manages to tip it off court. WA, Hannah Sell takes the side-line throw, but the seconds run out as she is just about to pass, ending the first half of the game 35-22.

Praise is awarded to the team for the much improved display of their skill.   A tactical change to the defence area, sees Claire Daw and Sam Abbott swapping roles and the team are asked to continue the same play for the remainder of the game. This they succeed in doing in the third quarter, again winning the ball on many occasions. Tight defensive play by Phoebe and Claire in the circle, with Claire blocking her player from the post, allowing her to claim the rebound from the missed shot. A break from Cranfield’s WA at their centre pass, awards the ball to Omega again and they don’t fail to impress their great barrage of supporters, converting the shot, increasing the score further for the team.

Going into the final quarter with a score of 52-28, Omega are confident they have the win in sight. Although tiring in her new position, C, Sophie Cockrill continues to give her all as does WA, Hannah Sell, both of whom seem to have settle into the mid field play as they win possession from the opposition consistently every quarter of the game, turning the ball to Omega’s advantage each time. Cranfield’s GD is warned for persistent contact this quarter. With the final 90 seconds of the game, WA, Hannah leaps to cleanly intercept the ball mid court and  Omega take the ball to the circle, where Charlotte tries out England’s Corbyn move, with a back ball around her body, finding shooting partner Emma who rewards the superb team effort with the goal. Cranfield win the final quarter by two goals, but it’s too little, too late as the game ends 62-40 to Omega, who not only take the game, but also the winning top table slot, guaranteeing their promotion for the third consecutive year and a place in Division 1 in the East Region League next season.

A well deserved win to end a superb season for the entire squad, which includes Lucy Andrews, Megan Pryde and Hannah Lok, who all contributed well to the games this season.  Also a big thanks to the 2nd team players, Andrea Kinninmonth, Hannah Brown, Emma Faulkner and Molly Brett,  who have stepped up to help the team out when they’ve been short this season….the team couldn’t have achieved this without your support.

To top the great season, congratulations to Lucy and Tom, who announced that they’re expecting their second little gem….another mascot for the team!

Mar 24
0

Omega 1 vs Norfolk Utd 2 at Norwich, Sat 24th March 2018

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  • Omega 1 vs Norfolk Utd 2 - 2nd half div 2 games 2018

Omega travel to Norwich for their penultimate East Region game against Norfolk Utd, the team promoted with them from division 3 at the end of last season.  The build up to the game has presented nerves as they are missing their regular shooter, but both Hannah Brown and Emma Faulkner step up from the 2nd team, to fill the shooting position and give options for mid court coverage.    After a long journey, the team arrive fairly relaxed and warm up.

They take the court with Hannah Brown filling the GS position to start and Omega have the first centre pass of the game, swiftly taking the opening goal of the game.    The Omega team start with control and skill and with the defence putting pressure on the opposition’s shooters, they force Norfolk to error their first two centre passes within the shooting circle, allowing Omega to score the first 5 consecutive goals of the game.  The tight defence by Phoebe Gillen (GK), Hannah Sell (GD) and Claire Daws (WD) continues through the opening half of this quarter, which forces the Norfolk attack to error on several occasions, turning over the possession of play to Omega’s advantage on several occasions and the attack players Sophie Cockrill (WA) and Lucy Andrews (C) demonstrating great control of the ball, seeking out the shooters, who’s accuracy is on fire!  With both teams in the same colour kit, some confusion is evident as Emma Maidment (GA), sees the blue on the edge of the circle and thinking it is her team member,  she passes the ball to Norfolk’s centre and they quickly take the ball down court to goal.   The determination and desire to win is evident in both teams, resulting in the umpires having words with players on both teams and a player on each team being cautioned (Omega for persistent offence and Norfolk for dissent on umpire’s decision).  The opening quarter ends with Omega holding the lead with a score of 15-8.

Some praise for the great display of netball during the quarter and the team being told to continue the play as they’ve started.  The same team take the court once more, but Norfolk make changes to both their circle ends, replacing their GK and GS in an attempt to keep the scores close.   The first centre pass goes to Norfolk this time and the quarter doesn’t start so well for Omega with Norfolk fighting back, stealing the first 3 goals of the quarter.   Hannah Sell’s tight marking wins Omega the opportunity to claw back a goal as the Norfolk GA contacts as she attempts to position herself for a goal line pass, but the ball is quickly returned to Norfolk.  The sea of blue on the court is seeming to cause problems for the Omega team this quarter and they loose the ball on a couple of occasions, throwing the ball to their opposition in error as a result.   Omega’s WD, Claire Daw picks up a warning for persistent obstruction around the circle in an attempt to pressure the Norfolk attack.  This quarter, the Norfolk GK puts on the pressure and Omega struggle to find their shooter, forcing Emma Maidment to work harder to dominate the shooting circle.   Likewise, the Norfolk GS appears to have given their GA confidence and the accuracy of both players is now spot on.  These changes allow Norfolk to claw back the goals, winning the 2nd quarter 13 -11, ending the first half with a score of 26-21 to Omega.

A tactical change to the team, with Emma Faulkner replacing Hannah Brown as GS and Sam Abbott replacing Claire Daw at WD.  The team are told to settle back and maintain control of the ball, checking the player they are throwing to, to avoid further passing direct to the opposition.   Once again, the quarter starts with Norfolk fighting back hard and taking the first three goals of the quarter in the early minutes, but a swift change as this time it’s Norfolk’s turn to get confused with the colours as they pass the ball directly to Omega.   Another caution is given, this time to Omega’s WA, Sophie Cockrill for dissent towards the umpire’s decision, which sees the possession awarded to Norfolk.    Omega are not moving onto the pass this quarter and Norfolk are quick to read the pass and steal it on several occasions.    The Omega defence continues to be strong and tight, forcing Norfolk attack to error, but having gained the possession, Omega return the ball straight back to their opposition.   An error with a foot on the line at a side-line throw in proves costly for Omega as Norfolk hold onto possession and gain an equaliser bringing the score to 32-32 with only a minute to the end of the quarter.  Omega fight back to regain a lead to end the quarter 34-32.

The final quarter and players are told to take back control and move on to the pass.  A slight change with Sam Abbott taking the WD and Hannah Sell returning to GD and the team take the court.  Norfolk GS misses the first shot of the quarter and goes for the rebound, but contacts Omega defence, allowing Omega to take the first 2 goals of the quarter.   The colours look to be proving difficult for both teams in the opening minutes, as each player appears to be really thinking about their pass before releasing the ball.  Determined to maintain control and the lead, Omega attack display skill in controlling and linking the passes and perfection in the inter-passing within the shooting circle.  This, coupled with some superb interceptions by Omega’s defence, allows Omega to increase their lead to 5 goals, but an error on a centre pass sees Norfolk pick up the next 2 goals, reducing the lead once more.   Omega settle again and their discipline in ball control throughout the whole court, pays dividends as they re-open up the lead.  Desire to win ever present, sees Omega’s WD, Sam Abbott cautioned for deliberate contact in the final minutes.    Lucy Andrews intercepts the ball in the final 30 seconds but immediately returns the ball to Norfolk who punish with a goal.   The final centre pass is Norfolk’s, but the team continues to the pressure to the bitter end, with Hannah Sell intercepting the ball and the team take it to the shooters, but there is not enough time to convert a final goal.   The game ends with a final score of 45-40, limiting Norfolk to a single point for the table.  The win sees Omega sitting 1 point behind top of the table, Thoroughbreds who have played all of their games and Omega having one more game in hand, hence the potential to take the top spot.

Player of the Match for Omega went to Emma Maidment and for Norfolk, to their GD.

An excellent display of competitive netball from both teams as is usually the case when the two teams meet and a game controlled well by both umpires.  Omega meet Cranfield for their final re-arranged game, which is a home game on Saturday 7th April, when they hope to secure the top spot and promotion for the 3rd year running, this time to Division 1 of the East Region League.

Mar 04
3

Omega 2 vs Abby Flyers Nomads – Sunday 4th March 2018

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Omega 2 vs AFN 3 4th March 2018

Today was the battle for the top of the table position in Division 2 Herts League and Omega were nervous, not only to face the top team, but due to being depleted in key positions.  This being a battle between AFN 3, who for years were a Division 1 team, demoted to Division 2 just last season and Omega, who were promoted this season as the winners of Division 3.  Once again, super-sub Chloe D’Arcy steps up to the plate and fills in for the team, this time in her usual GA position.  Molly Brett picks up the GD mantle from her usual WD position and Lisa Short takes on WD instead of her usual C position.

The opening quarter and Omega may be nervous, but start the game steady and settle their play well.   Tight defensive play from GK, Andrea Kinninmonth, GD, Molly Brett and WD, Lisa Short, winning 5 turnovers for the team, giving us more opportunities to secure the needed goals for the game.  As a whole, the team make few court errors this quarter, holding on to the ball solidly.   An excellent start to what is destined to be a close game throughout, with the score at the end of the first quarter being 13-15 to AFN.

The team talk in the quarter was a boost and testament to the play, with the team told to continue to play as they have started.  Both teams are keen to take the game with accurate shooting demonstrated by both team and the court play being neck and neck. Omega struggle with the 2nd pass from centre court and AFN have  tightened their defence, taking advantage of our struggle, winning the ball back again on 6 occasions on the Omega attack play.  Evening this up, the Omega defence players are tight on their opponents and turn the game over 8 more times, creating further chances for the team to up the scores and they pull back the score to a draw of 28-28 by half time.

Once again, the Omega coach applauds the team’s play and the team are determined to give their best shot at taking the top of the table.  The team are determined as they take the court to start the second half of the game and once again this quarter, the whole team give all they have got.  This quarter, Omega tend to follow the ball in their attacking play, instead of using the whole court and creating the space.  This said, the team maintain ball ownership and managed to take the ball to goal consistently, finished off by almost 100% conversion (only one missed shot this quarter) by both GA, Chloe D’Arcy and GS Hannah Brown.  By the end of the quarter, Omega take their first lead in the game, with a score going into the final quarter with Omega two up and the score of 42-40.

The final team chat and it’s again very positive with the potential win within our grasps.   The team are told to play safe and maintain ownership and they head back on court ready to fight to the end.  Another exciting quarter with Omega upping the anti for the majority of the quarter, adding a further two goals to their lead, but some fatal errors in the final 3 minutes allow AFN back into the game and they are quick to punish Omega’s errors, closing the gap to a draw in the final minute of the game.  Omega manage to take the next centre pass to goal and there are a mere 10 seconds remaining on the clock as AFN take the final centre pass.  The tension is high as AFN successfully find their GS, who scores the equaliser with 0.6 seconds remaining.

A very cleanly fought game by both teams, with each equally keen to take the win.  The game was neck and neck for majority of the time, with Omega just taking the edge in the second half, but unable to hold on to the lead gained.  The teams meet again at the beginning of April for a re-arranged fixture from the 1st round of games.  This is once again expected to be a very competitive, closely fought game and one to watch as once again both team compete for the top slot!

Feb 25
2

Omega 2 vs Buntingford – Sunday 25th Feb 2018

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Omega 2 vs Buntingford - 25th Feb 2018

Hallelujah….we’re back at Sir Freds!!!  The rematch against Buntingford and having lost by 4 goals in the 1st round, Omega were expecting a tough, contested game as Buntingford read the ball well and go for every ball.

The match started with Hannah Brown – GS; Sophie Humphry – GA; Lisa Short – WA, Emma Faulkner – C; Molly Brett – WD; Andrea Kinninmonth – GD and returning to her first Herts League game after pregnancy, Julie Stanbridge – GK and Leanne Mansfield on the bench.    Omega started well with the team gaining an early lead of 3-0, controlling the ball well and winning possession of the ball  from the opposition on several occasions.    Even though we didn’t always hold on to every advantage gained, the team successfully converted 17 goals in the opening quarter and kept Buntingford to just 11.

A change at WA saw Leanne pick up the WA position from Lisa Short and reminder from the coach to keep hold of the balls we gain!  The team return to court, knowing there is a long way to go in the game so we all have to give everything we have to maintain the opening lead.   Buntingford return to court ready to fight for the game and close the lead to just 4 goals in this quarter.  Although often struggling to get the ball out on the centre pass and regular congestion in the defence and mid court area, Omega maintain their discipline and controlled play which allows them to regain their lead, with this quarter being a draw of 13-13 (score of 30-24).

A half time chat about our positioning, congestion and ball placement and a decision taken to try to establish team stability, results in the team staying as per the 2nd quarter as the lead gained isn’t as comfortable as we’d like.    This quarter, the team settle into their positions well and whilst we still struggle on occasion at centre pass, support from the defence allows the team to maintain possession.  Some superb rebounds and interceptions by Julie and you’d never have thought this was her 1st Herts League game, after giving birth end of November!     The whole team settle and turnover balls and this quarter, we are more aware of our space and the court is less congested and the whole mid court, Leanne, Emma and Molly work to carefully take the ball to our shooters, Sophie and Hannah, both of whom have been extremely accurate in their conversion throughout the entire game, resulting in the game really opening up this quarter, with Omega gaining a 15 goal lead and a score of 48-33 going into the final quarter.

A final change to the team with Lisa taking back the WA position from Leanne and a team chat to continue our current, safe play!  We loose the 1st centre pass, but quickly get back on the attack to recover.   Once again, this quarter sees the team controlling their play and thinking about the next pass to secure the goals.  More impressive defending from Julie and Molly and also the midcourt players, Lisa and Em as they pick up loose balls and intercept the passes, before impressively maintaining the ball ownership to goal!    Likewise, continued accuracy with goal conversion by Hannah and Sophie and Buntingford know the game is lost.  A final score of 63-41 and Omega are extremely happy with the result, as Buntingford are the only team who have beaten top of the table, Abby Flyers, who Omega have next game.

Next game will see both Abby Flyers and Omega battling to secure the top of the table position and promotion to Division 1.

Feb 19
0

Omega 1 vs Bears 1, Saturday 10th Feb 2018

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Omega 1 vs Bears 1 10th Feb 2018

After playing against Bears earlier in the season and the final score being 54-54, Omega knew this was going to be a competitive game and that they would have to put up a fight in order to take the win which is exactly what they did.

Omega take the 1st centre pass to start the game off, a missed goal by Omega resulted in Bears being the first on the scoreboard. Both teams are making mistakes and the game is almost goal for goal, defence are applying pressure and making several interceptions but are being called up by the umpires for ball handling and contact resulting in the ball being back in Bears possession. Both teams were rattled by the pressure, Bears WA was given a caution for persistent breaking on centre passes and Omega’s WA is told to tidy up her obstruction. A close finish to the 1st quarter 11-10 to Bears.

Omega start off the 2nd quarter with nothing but determination. Omega have the 1st centre pass which is straight to goal – they were back to playing their game. Omega were defending throughout the whole court forcing Bears to make errors and converting these into goals. Both teams desire to win is really starting to show as Bears WA is given a warning for dangerous play and Omega’s WD is given a caution. Omega’s shooters were consistent throughout the quarter and both had averaged above 90%. The score at the end of the quarter saw Omega pulling away at 26-24.

Moving onto the 3rd quarter with a 2 goal lead Omega’s attack worked the ball around and were feeding into the shooting circle superbly. The team came together as one and everyone was on their game, 4 lose balls were picked up by Omega in the 3rd quarter alone. Omega’s defence were communicating and working well together – 4 interceptions were made, several balls were forced off the back line whilst also applying pressure causing Bears to be called up for a held ball. Omega managed to retain their lead and the final score of the quarter was 42-38.

Final quarter and Bears had the 1st centre pass but were penalised for delaying play therefore it was advanced and handed over to Omega. The 4th quarter was the quarter Omega pulled away and took the win with the 1st 4 goals of the quarter being scored by themselves. Another 2 of Bears balls were forced off the back line due to solid defence. 10 minutes left on the clock and Omega were 10 goals up!!!!! Bears were beginning to feel the pressure, making silly mistakes allowing Omega to take advantage of this. Omega WA now also given a warning. Omega were minimising mistakes in this final quarter and went out fighting for that win. The hard work paid off as the final score was 63-48.

POM was awarded to GA Emma Maidment.