An intense battle unfolded between Defence Force and the University of Southern Caribbean (USC) on Tuesday evening in the Alternative Division of the Courts All Sectors Netball League and in the end it was the former sealed a 22-20 win at the Joao Havelange Centre of Excellence in Macoya.
It wasn’t the best of shooting days for goal-shooter Nikeisha Peters Williams but she did just enough to help Defence Force hold off USC. She ended with 16 goals off 27 attempts in a match which had a number of lead changes throughout.
Carla Victor, who was the leading scorer overall with 19 in 31, had USC narrowly ahead at the end of the first quarter, 4-3.
The second session went in favour of Defence Force through Williams with support from goal-attack Vanessa Brown (6/18), who combined to help their team outscore its opponent, 5-2, to earn a 8-6 lead at the half.
On the return to the court in the third period, USC regained some composure and fought back to level the score at 13 going into the fourth session.
Play in that quarter remained competitive but it was Defence Force getting the edge over USC to go away with the two-goal victory.
In the later match, Fire was hardly challenged in its easy 39-14 win over Police Youth Club (PYC).
Leading the shooting for the firewomen were pair Chelsea Delecia (19/33) and Shania Williams (17/31).
RESULTS
Alternative Division
Defence Force 22 (Nikeisha Peters Williams 16/27, Vanessa Brown 6/18) vs USC 20 (Carla Victor 19/31, Michelle Williams 1/9). Quarters scores: 1st. 4-3 (Defence Force); 2nd. 8-6 (USC); 3rd. 13-13.
Fire 39 (Chelsea Delecia 19/33, Shania Williams 17/31, Kelly Ann Alexander 3/6) vs PYC 14 (Cheryse Aguillera 2/4, Kaliyah Cooper 9/20, Akeia Carmichael 3/4). Quarter scores: 1st. 10-2 (Fire); 2. 21-8 (Fire); 3rd. 31-11 (Fire).