Somerset Netball League

Sydenham Gems 49, Newton 37

SYDENHAM Gems sealed a third place finish in the Somerset Premier League with a 49-37 victory over Newton on Saturday morning.

A player of the match display from Danni Keirle fired Gems to a comfortable victory to help secure a highest place finish for the Sydenham side.

An early injury to Kerry Fellows forced Gems into a quick reshuffle, which saw herself and Rachel Lawrence switch positions for the first half of the game.

Gems edged their way ahead early on, but Newton remained persistent and continued to work their way up the court.

Paige Pople, playing at WA, was at her sharpest to prevent any further Newton possession, with a number of key interceptions. Justine Pearn and Hannah Clapp were finding the net at regular intervals as Gems pushed further ahead, but Newton remained on their tail and were in no mood to give up.

Kerry Fellows and Rachel Lawrence made a number of vital interceptions for the home side, while determined play in centre court from Amy Witcombe and the impressive Dannie Keirle ensured Gems held on to their lead.

As the final quarter drew to a close, Gems had developed a 12-point lead and a secured a convincing win.

Gems’ captain Amy Witcombe was pleased with the win and praised her side’s efforts over the course of the season.

She said: “This is the highest we have got in the Premier league, finishing in third place, but with the same number of wins as the teams placed first and second.

“Thanks you to all the ladies who have played for us during the season - Kelly Thorne, Paige Pople, Katie Ball, Beth Fella, Sue Bushnell, Nic Hale and Carly Martin - and thank You to all supporters this season.

“Newton didn't give up though and pushed us all the way, but they began to run out of steam in the final quarter.”