SCOTTISH THISTLES SEAL INTERNATIONAL TEST SERIES VICTORY WITH DOMINANT DOUBLE WIN OVER BARBADOS
4th December 2021
MATCH REPORT – 2ND TEST
Friday 3rd Dec 2021
SCOTLAND V BARBADOS
The Thistles geared up for the second test against Barbados at the Emirates Arena.
An unchanged line-up from yesterday’s match saw the Thistles get off to another flying start leading 8-1 in the first five minutes. The team found a solid rhythm, looking determined to build from their previous meeting against the Gems. Conway set the defensive standard from the back, turning over ball with support from Nicholl and Maxwell out in front, forcing errors early. Last night’s player of the match, Iona Christian provided solid feeds into both Barrie and McCall who showed the crowd why she is the long bomb specialist. The first quarter finished 19-4 in favour of the Scots.
The starting seven remained on the court as the second quarter was underway. Tight one-on-one defence from the Thistles continued to push Barbados, making it challenging for the Gems to feed their shooters. Leighton in the centre dominated her opponent as she demonstrated her speed and flare in transition from defence to attack. The team managed to push ahead, sticking to their structures increasing their lead by 20 goals with 5 minutes remaining in the first half. The shooting accuracy of McCall and Barrie increased the score margin which finished 35-14 after 30 minutes.
Heading into the second half, Barbados was determined to disrupt the flow of the Thistles. Caitlin Pringle came into goalkeeper having an immediate impact, denying the Gems an easy feed into their shooters. Christian moved into the centre, combining with McCleery on at wing attack and the midcourters worked tirelessly within the attacking third providing slick feeding into our shooters. The Gems began a tough fight back, narrowing the score-line through their strong possessive game, sinking multiple goals in a row. After 45 minutes the Thistles led 55-26.
With 15 minutes left to play, the Thistles brought Goodwin onto goal shooter who showed confidence under the post. Up the other end, Barbados worked hard to provide their shooters with the opportunity to convert. MacPhail in at wing defence showed great athleticism forcing errors from the Gems and supported her team in bringing the ball through court. Stagg slotted into goal attack replacing McCall with 7 minutes remaining, linking well with Goodwin. The Thistles powered through to the final whistle, successfully securing their second win of the series. All 12 players took to the court again with the final score finishing 74-35. Congratulations to Vice-Captain Emily Nicholl who took this evening’s Player of the Match after an impressive 60 minutes at goal defence. A special mention goes to our 4 newest Thistles, Iona Christian, Hannah Leighton, Caitlin Pringle and Kalea Stagg!
FT 74-35
POM Emily Nicholl
