Celtic Dragons 55, Sirens 52
Celtic Dragons are off the mark.
They secured a first Vitality Netball Superleague win in front of their Green Army supporters in Cardiff.
Dragons fought back from behind against Glasgow-based visitors Sirens and produced a sparkling third quarter to fire up their victory hopes.
Goal-attack Kalifa McCollin was in consistent form and was named player of the match with a shooting record of 93 per cent.
McCollin’s link with centre Kyra Jones is a major plus for the Welsh team.
“What a fantastic result,” said defender Kelly Morgan. “The Green Army fans were right behind us. We didn’t make it easy in parts, but the determination of our team was brilliant.
“We were united, players and fans.”
Stacey Peeters tweeted: “#GreenArmy was the best tonight!! Everyone, your support is honestly the greatest thing and I can’t wait to hear you all again next week.”
The match was shown live on Sky television and Dragons responded with one of their most impressive performances of the season so far.
The starting seven for Dragons was GK Leila Thomas, GD Kelly Morgan, WD Suzy Drane, C Kyra Jones, WA Bethan Dyke, GA Kalifa McCollin, GS Eleanor Roberts.
Sirens led 15-11 after the first, while Dragons made two changes for the second with Fern Davies playing goal-defence with Kelly Morgan at goal-keeper.
Dragons won the second quarter 13-11 and earned the overall lead in an 18-12 third.
Sirens edged the third, but with the Green Army firing up the atmosphere in a close-fought match the home team held on for victory.
Quarter scores (Dragons first): 11-15; 13-11 (24-26); 18-12 (42-38); 13-14 (55-52).
Gilbert Player of the match: Kalifa McCollin.
The next Superleague match for Dragons is against Severn Stars from Worcester at the Sport Wales National Centre in Cardiff next Monday.
Vitality Superleague Netball
Celtic Dragons remaining home fixtures – all at Sport Wales National Centre, Cardiff
April
Monday 17 v Severn Stars (7pm)
Saturday 29 v Manchester Thunder (4pm)
May
Monday 1 v Hertfordshire Mavericks (4pm)
Monday 15 v Surrey Storm (7pm)
Saturday 27 v Wasps (4pm)
June
Saturday 3 v Team Northumbria (2pm)
Tickets for all Dragons home games can be found at celticdragonsnetball.com
Use promocode EASTER241 for buy one get one free tickets