Recap – National League Semi Finals
12th May 2025
Semifinals Deliver Thrilling Action in Edinburgh
The National League semifinals took place on Sunday at the University of Edinburgh, and both matchups delivered high-intensity netball that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Edinburgh University vs Edinburgh Accies
The opening semifinal was an instant classic, as the University of Edinburgh clashed with local rivals Edinburgh Accies in a match that ebbed and flowed until the final whistle—and beyond.
Accies came out firing, with their reliable shooting duo of Gemma Sole and Jo Petitt setting the tone. They led 15–12 after the first quarter and extended that advantage to five goals by halftime, thanks to commanding defensive work from Ruby McLean and Rebecca Innes, which helped them edge the second quarter 17–15.
But Edinburgh University showed remarkable resilience in the second half. Lex Callard at goal attack and Mia Matthewson through the midcourt were instrumental in a 15–13 third-quarter push that brought them within striking distance at 45–42 heading into the final term.
The fourth quarter was a tense, back-and-forth battle. Defenders Julia Eglin and Flic Rome stood tall in the circle, repelling several Accies attacks and keeping Edinburgh University in the hunt. With less than a minute to play, Accies reclaimed the lead—only for Holly Turnbull to level the score with just three seconds remaining, sending the game into extra time to the delight of a captivated crowd.
In the 10-minute overtime, Edinburgh University maintained their momentum and found another gear. Their sharp shooting proved the difference as they outscored Accies 8–4, sealing a thrilling 64–60 victory and booking their spot in the grand final in two weeks’ time.
Strathclyde University vs Bellahouston Netball
The second semifinal saw the University of Strathclyde overcome a strong challenge from Bellahouston Netball to secure a 62–48 win.
Strathclyde started brightly, but a late first-quarter surge from Bella gave them a 14–12 lead at the first break. Beth Logan looked confident early on, and the return of Caitlin Pringle, alongside the experience of Bex Metcalfe, had Bellahouston believing in an upset.
However, Strathclyde found their rhythm in the second quarter. Emma Keith was composed under the post, helping her side take a 25–22 lead into halftime.
The third quarter—so often decisive in big matches—proved pivotal once again. Both teams shuffled their lineups in search of the right balance, but it was Strathclyde who emerged stronger, winning the quarter 17–13 and carrying a seven-goal cushion into the final period. Captain Lucy Holmes was outstanding at goal defence, expertly marshalling play and combining effectively with Lexy Gillies and Fran Hall.
Strathclyde refused to give Bella any opportunity for a late comeback, turning up the pressure in the fourth quarter with a dominant 20–13 finish to close out the match.
They now advance to face the University of Edinburgh in what promises to be a must-watch National League final. Make sure to grab your tickets HERE
