Baldock Crusaders Netball Club

Baldock Reds competed in the Bedford Cup final on Wednesday 15th June V Cranfield Tigers.

The match was played in doors in front of a large crowd.  Baldock had their own supporters too, thanks to all that came to watch.

The match was based on having to win quarters. 
The first quarter got underway and it was clear that the reds were incredibly nervous.  The ball was worked down in to the attack but the final ball into the circle just wasn't working.  Baldock defence, Sydney, Jane and Becky played really well to keep the ball coming back down to Baldocks end but the team looked jaded and apart from a few good long range shots from Jenna, it just wasn't happening.  Baldock lost the first quarter 6-4.

It was clear that the girls had the passion, fight and ability to win the game and in a quick quarter time chat, the girls knew what they had to do. 
The reds came out fighting - Jenna found her touch feeding into Julia and she found her range with the net. 
Nat was fantastic through out the court and instrumental to Baldock reds taking control of the game. 
At the end of the quarter Jane was very impressive as she rose like a salmon to intercept a cross court ball. 
The whole team in general gelled as we usually do and the reds came away with the quarter, winning 10 -1.

The third quarter was important as the girls knew they couldn't afford to let their grip on the game slip.  The heat of the indoor court was having an affect on the girls and the long season was telling.  However, this game meant a lot to the girls and they really dug deep to take control of the third quarter.  Jess Marley, coming back from an injury did well to keep up with the pace of the game. 

Sydney, stuck really well to her WA and got some great interceptions.
Jane and Becky stuck back on the shooter and this had a great effect at stopping balls in to the Cranfield circle. 
Julia and Jenna had now really gelled and they were both accurately and with confidence.  The Reds took this quarter 7 -3.

The final quarter was played really well by the reds, they went all out to start to establish a lead and then tried to protect the quarter.  A dropped ball by the reds attack gave way to a mini come back by the Cranfield Tigers, however, once again, Nat intercepted a ball to mean the Reds got back in control.
As Caroline's voice finally began to give way from all the shouting, the final whistle blew for a victorious 6 -4. 

It was an absolutely fantastic game from the Reds and as a club we are so proud of the way they played.  WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS!!! :)))