Bristol Uni Home, 1sts
9-11, Chris Gubby (2), Sian Hunt (2), Helen Gubby (1), Joey Niblett (1), Lee O’Sullivan (1), Rachel Knight (1), Remco Broekhuis (1), Caroline Lowdon
Second in the table, and with their only defeat having come by a single goal, we knew the Bristol Badgers would provide tough opposition – even before they turned up with a National League player in tow. He formed part of a very strong quartet of boys, and Dragons were clearly not going to be able to rely on the usual hatful of goals from their own guys.
The first half was very even, with defences dominating. Chris gave Dragons the lead before providing a side feed for Sian to double the lead. The uni team then brought the scores back level before Sian scored her second runner. Again the students levelled the game with a shot from half-way, before Helen finished the half with a goal under the basket. 4-3 at the interval.
The Badgers started the second half better, working their way into a 6-4 lead, However, Dragons responded, finding space behind the defence for 3 running in shots and a penalty, coolly slotted home by Lee. When Joey scored from long range, the lead was 9-6 to Dragons. Unfortunately, the students hit back with goals coming at regular intervals while shot after shot from the Dragons dribbled off the rim. Bristol Uni inched ahead, and then another long shot as Dragons dropped back for the rebounds clinched the game for the away side. Towards the end Lee unwisely tried to give the post a Glasgow kiss and came off second best.
9-11 represented an unfortunate defeat for Dragons who actually performed very well, especially in defence, and Caroline proved very solid in her first team debut. However, the long shooting that normally represents a strength for the team was misfiring and that eventually proved the difference. Thanks to Terry for reffing both games.
With Bristol City and Cardiff City both notching big wins, the league title has been thrown open, with 4 sides in contention for it. Cardiff City still have to meet Bristol Uni, but otherwise the playoffs seem destined to decide the winner.