Netball: Chichester students brave in Brighton defeat

At half-time Chichester were only a few goals down so some changes were made and by the end of the third quarter it was all square.

The intensity in the final quarter was magnificent as Brighton took a narrow lead and held it to win 41-40.

Captain Kayleigh Smith commended her team for an excellent example of high-quality netball. Player-of-the-match honours were split around the whole team but the school visitors voted for Emily Barber, who shot superbly.

Chichester’s seconds were away to Portsmouth and with only a small number of players available, the final score did not reflect the hard work the team put in.

The defence were bringing the ball up the court, with the attack working very hard to filter it into the circle – but in the end Portsmouth triumphed 50-35.

Players of the match were Chloe Chapman and Hannah Stratton for excellent collaboration in defence and Jessie Ford for her hard work bringing the ball up court.

Chi’s thirds faced Surrey seconds, who were joint second with them in the table.

The first quarter saw Surrey go six up but Chichester went two goals up at the end of the third quarter. The end result was a rare tie, 37-37, which saw Chichester rise above Surrey on goal difference. Player of the match was Becca Jelley for coming on at goal defence at half-time and completely changing the movements in and around the circle.

The Chi fifth team hosted Roehampton fourths looking to retain their undefeated run.

After an impressive first quarter the fifths were up, and this continued throughout. The team racked up an impressive 50 goals which saw them defeat Roehampton 50-14.

Player of the match was Gemma Hitchcock for amazing defending in her first full game.

With three fixtures left, it looks like this team are going to win their league with a 100 per cent record.