Tendring Ladies 0 - 3 Team Northumbria

12:25, 22:25, 21:25

Report by Amelia Smith

Saturday 17th March marked one of the toughest home games of the season as Tendring women took on top of the league, Team Northumbria.

Even in spite of a long journey down from Newcastle, Northumbria women looked on top form in the warm up, and started the game strong, showing off their multitude of top division Americans. For Tendring, the first set proved a shaky start, especially in serve-receive against some very strong Northumbria servers. Despite a tough fight from Tendring and several great swings from Mechell Daniel, Northumbria unfortunately took the first set 25-12.

Moving into the second set however, there was a noticeable shift in Tendring’s approach, as they quickly gained momentum, beating Northumbria to the first technical timeout. Secured by some great defence from libero, Lena Bitadou, and some equally brilliant serving from Charlotte Bontems, Tendring continued their lead, beating Northumbria also to the second technical. However, from a strong and experienced side, it was no surprise that Northumbria fought back equally hard, with a tactful service run securing the set 25-22 in their favour.

All was not over for Tendring going into the third set: everyone was determined to take this game to five. After another strong start from Tendring and a great connection between setter, Lois Chitticks and outside, Sarah Edwards, the third set began very much like the previous. As the set continued, Tendring and Northumbria were virtually neck and neck, challenging each other on serve receive and defence. After a hard-fought battle up to the second technical timeout, Northumbria, with all their power, began to take the lead, finishing the set 25-21.

Although a 3-0 loss for Tendring, there were so many positives to be taken from this game, many of which will prepare them for their next game against Durham. We would like to thank all those who came and watched and encourage everyone to support us at home this weekend on Friday 23rd at 19:30 against Durham and Saturday 24th at 17:45 against Wessex.