Post by Fiona Greer
Our women’s first team, Penguin Emperors, kicked off their BWPL campaign with three wins in the opening weekend of the division two season at the Newport International Sports Village. A big welcome back to John Lake as our coach and to all players who have committed to play this season. I’m pleased to be team captain this year with Chiara Palazzo assisting as vice-captain.
 | Penguin Emperors left to right, back row: L. Dooley, S. Spearing, F. Greer, K. Collins, C .Martin and E. Shaw; | |
Saturday 20th September
Penguin Emperors vs Manchester Comets. At the end of the first quarter we had drawn 1-1, settling down in the second quarter to set up the arc and create the space for the outside shots and opportunities to convert from pit, but we were still only narrowly leading 4-3 after the second quarter. We stepped up in the last two quarters with some great linked play and a solid defence to win the second half 5-0.
Final score: 9-3
Goal scorers: A. Middlemast, F. Greer, C.Martin, C.Palazzo.
Penguin Emperors vs Liverpool Liverbirds. Our second game of the day was tight at the start and we went into the second quarter with a narrow 2-0 lead, Liverpool showed their experience winning the second quarter 3-2 reducing our lead to 4-3 at the end of the second quarter. The third quarter saw a crucial save from K.Collins denying the equaliser from Liverpool. Penguin refocused making some great steals resulting in a couple of quick counter attack goals increasing the lead to 8-5 at the end of the 4th quarter.
Final score: 8-5
Goal scorers: H.Boyd, A.Middlemast, S.Spearing, C.Martin, E.Shaw.
Sunday 21st September
Penguin Emperors vs Hucknall. The third game of the weekend against Hucknall was harder than the scoreline suggested. An early penalty awarded to F.Greer in the pit just 15 seconds into the game was converted by A.Middlemast opening up the scoring and setting the tone for the game. Some disciplined defence led by L.Dooley closed down Hucknall attacks and some well timed steals from goalie K.Collins helped the quick counter attacks adding to a steadily increasing goal tally. Penguin were unfortunate to concede a goal after a man-up from Hucknall gave them a well earned goal in the last minute of the game.
Final score: 9-1
Goal scorers: H.Boyd, A.Middlemast, F.Greer, J.Petchey, C.Martin, C.Palazzo.
 |
A great start to the season, putting us top of the table after the weekend. We play again on 4th and 5th October in Gloucester.