Celtic Dragons fell to another league defeat despite a spirited opening and more structured second half performance against London Pulse.
It was a strong start from Pulse who went into a 5-goal lead early doors, but Dragons fought back strongly. Abby Tyrrell showed excellent footwork to dance around the Pulse shooting partnership and wins some much needed turnover ball. Amy Clinton, who remains in red hot form, was able to convert these opportunities and help Dragons to go on a five goal run.
Tails were up and there was plenty to be optimistic about heading into the second quarter. Despite finishing the first quarter with a flourish, Dragons were all at sea. The Pulse defenders were able to limit Dragons opportunities at goal, with a number of held ball calls seeing Pulse provided with ample turnover ball. By half time, the game was decided.
It could have been a very hard watch in the second half, but co-captain Rebekah Robinson marshalled her team-mates well and the squad put in a far more comprehensive performance for much of the second half. Lucy Howells exerted pressure at wing-defence and Shona O’Dwyer showed her trademark work-rate to help Dragons restore an element of pride to the evening.
Dragons will be facing previous Champions Manchester Thunder this coming Sunday and the players will be hungry for the opportunity to hit the court once again and put the loss behind them. WA/GA Laura Rudland said: “No one is more disappointed with our performances than us. I fully believe this group is capable of so much more, we just have to step up and show it.”
