The Raptors ladies team narrowly lost to Blackburn Phoenix on Wednesday evening in a close and physical game leaving bust lips, bruises and injuries everywhere. With hard work from the Rossendale forwards (Sarah Gallagher, Dianne Tibbs, Mitchelle Tweedale and Viv Calderbank), the Raptors used their height advantage well throughout the first half to gain position and shots from within the paint. Despite the basket being unkind, the Raptors went into the second half only three points down.
The Phoenix team, largely made up from last years folded East Manchester Rebels, came out hard in the second half. Playing a full court press, the team used their previous experience to pull out to a nine point lead at the end of the 3rd.
Switching to a man-to-man defence of their own, the Rossendale team began to claw back the points. With great defensive work by all, especially the guards (Jackie Rees, Michelle Mcmanus, Beth Cattle, Verity Postlethwaite, Lizzie Pollard, Chloe Yearsley, Ebony Hatton and Sarah Dormer), several turn-overs were forced from the Phoenix team. Although the 4th quarter belonged to the Raptors, it was not enough to claim the game.
With a final score of 43/37, this narrow loss shows the development of the team and points towards a promising 2nd half to the season. A big thanks to those who came to support the team. Well done to Blackburn as well who have started well in their first season.
Sadly, the game was the last appearance from Verity who is moving on to pastures new. She’s been a great member of the squad and we wish her all the best in the future.