Hinckley Ladies A team began the New Year away at Coventry Sphinx. The first quarter was fast paced and it took both teams a while to settle. Sphinx were leading 10-6 at the end of the first quarter and with many accurate interceptions in the second, pulled away to a 21-11 advantage by half time. Hinckley made inspired, tactical changes for the second half, resulting in a stronger third quarter, with increased possession and more control of the game, closing the gap to 7 goals going into the final period. The last quarter was extremely tense with players pushing themselves to make every goal count. Hinckley’s dynamic shooting duo pulled together to shoot 14 successful goals and get level 35-35 with only 20 seconds to go on the clock. Sharp action from Hinckley’s Centre and Wing Attack fed the last ball of the game straight to their Shooter who converted to give Hinckley the goal for a 36-35 victory. Player of the match went to interception superstar Ashleigh Oakes.
2016 started with an inter-club derby match between Hinckley’s B and C teams, both sitting mid table in the division before the game. As expected it was a tight contest, with scores tied after the first quarter. The B team defence were able to secure several rebounds from goal, giving the team opportunity to build turn over ball through the mid court. However, it was the C team’s tight defence, calm mid court play and consistent finishing by their shooting pair which came through to secure the win. The final score was 35-26 to the Cs with player of the match awards going to the B team goal attack Emily Harrison, and the C team goal shooter Charlotte Wilkinson.
Hinckley E took to the court missing their key Goal Shooter forcing changes to the line up. Hinckley started positively, with play in the first quarter pretty even but after 15 minutes Hinckley had taken the lead 7–5. In the second quarter Hinckley played with determination and consistency, their shooters having a tough game against a strong, physical defence but not deterred with some great shots in this quarter increasing their lead to 16–9. In the third and final quarters the E team defence made many interceptions and mid court play continued to be very strong with player of the match Rebecca Kenney at Wing Defence linking up well with Centre and the attack. Overall the defence and pressure from the whole team when Ernesford were in possession was superb and Hinckley remained ahead until the final whistle. Final score 28–22. A well deserved win and a great start to the new year for the E team.