Gems 33, Babylon 43

GEMS slipped to a ten-point defeat at the hands of Babylon on Saturday.

Gems started the first quarter slowly with movement and space in the centre court limiting game play and making it difficult for to get the ball into the attacking circle.

After five minutes of play, Gems sorted themselves out and movement started to flow - great centre court play from Amy Witcombe and Kelly Thorne brought the ball in to Gems' shooters.

Unfortunately the first quarter finished with Babylon having a five goal lead.

The second and third quarters saw Babylon step up their game.

Gems defence were determined to keep up the pressure trying to force errors from Babylon's shooters.

Great interceptions from Kerry Hobbs and Rachel Lawrence meant gems kept up the pressure however it wasn't enough to shorten Babylon's lead.

Going into the last quarter, Gems knew they had a lot of work to do and started out strongly with Justine Pearn and Hannah Clapp scoring four goals in quick succession.

Danni Keirle kept the pressure on Babylon's WA, keeping her out of the game.

Unfortunately the Sydenham side couldn't shorten Babylon's lead and the game finished 43-33.

Player of the match was Kerry Hobbs who also shared the umpires vote with Amy Witcombe.