On Saturday 8 February, Celtic Dragons hosted a preseason tri-tournament in Ebbw Vale Sports Centre, featuring Superleague rivals London Pulse and Team Bath. The day consisted of three matches each with four 10 minutes quarters and it provided Dragons with an excellent opportunity to expose the entire squad to high calibre opposition.
The first game saw Dragons take on London Pulse. Last season after losing to Pulse in a preseason encounter, Dragons went on to do the league double over the East London based team. This time however it was Pulse in the driving seat, winning 33-26 despite a third quarter comeback for Dragons.
There was little rest for the Londoners who then had a quick turnaround to take on Team Bath. Bath won an early lead before Pulse drew it back to 19-all at the break. In the end, fresh legs helped Bath to a 44-32 win.
The last game of the day saw Dragons return to court and face Team Bath. The home team were caught cold initially but the players in green roared into life in the second quarter, taking it 9-7. Bath’s first quarter advantage was maintained however and the university-based side went on to win 40-28.
With just 2 weeks left until the Superleague begins, the day was a great experience for all teams involved. Celtic Dragons WA, Sophie Morgan said: “A really great run out on court today against Team Bath and Pulse. We ran through lots of combinations and there are lots of positives to take through and work on over the next two weeks.”
Morgan added: “A massive thank you to all the fans that came down to support us today and we look forward to seeing you on the 22nd!”
Celtic Dragons will now face Surrey Storm on Saturday 22 February at the Big Season Opener event in Arena Birmingham.
