Nick Wright previews this weekend's clash between York City Knights and Hull FC
Alex Reid looks at whether the once ever-present appearance of English clubs in the later stages of the Champions League is set to become a thing of the past
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James Tompkinson reviews an excellent pre-season victory for the York City Knights against Yorkshire rivals Leeds Rhinos
University of York 1sts 29 – 23 University of Sunderland 1sts
A sizeable crowd turned up to watch this fixture, and they weren’t disappointed. A tense, competitive match ensued, with York maintaining an edge on the visitors throughout to ultimately triumph by the slender margin of six points.
York started well, with centre Liz Cowell showing accurate passing and excellent dodging in the face of tough opposition, while Sarah Fisher and Claire Dinan once again demonstrated how well they work together in the circle, perfectly timing their movement, jumping for rebounds and shooting with precision. At the end of the first quarter York were winning 11-7, but knew they had to really keep fighting to maintain their lead.
The second period saw more excellent shooting from Dinan. The loud cheering from the sideline was encouraging throughout, with supporters constantly commenting on goal keeper Jenni Williams’ “lovely lean”. The pressure from York caused Sunderland to drop balls, which were snapped up by the determined hosts, and the second quarter ended 18 -14, with York maintaining their narrow four-point lead.
The third quarter brought tighter marking from Sunderland in the circle, but York’s shooters still managed to get free. Wing attack Cesca Dessain made several excellent interceptions, really helping to hold centre court play together, while goal keeper Grace Marsden continued to move well for back line passes. However, the improved shooting from Sunderland narrowed the margin to to 21-19 at the final interval.
The last quarter saw York really up the pressure on their opposition, with Sunderland receiving several penalties for held balls. The York defence were fighting really hard, with Marsden determined to get all the rebounds.
Captain Fisher really shone in this period, despite excellent marking from the Sunderland goal defence, with shots from the very edge of the circle entering the net without even touching the rim. York definitely dominated the final quarter, deservedly winning a close contest. Player of the Match was awarded to Cesca Dessain.
Teamsheet: Sarah Fisher (c), Grace Marsden, Jenni Williams, Sarah Smith, Claire Dinan, Liz Cowell, Cesca Dessain, Becki O'Dwyer.
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