Maple inch closer to Division One netball league title

Metrocint General Insurance Maple, moved one step closer in taking the Division One league title of the FLOW National Netball Tournament, by stopping the previously unbeaten Twilight Trading X-Ceed, last Thursday evening at the Kingstown Netball Centre.

In a contest of the two unbeaten teams, Maple, which sports many seasoned players, and at the other end of the age spectrum, the youthful X-Ceed, with the best midcourt line-up, set up a mouth-watering affair.

However, Maple, showing their combined years of experience and tact, sped out to a 16-10 lead in the first quarter and never looked back.

Maple held their rein on the match with a 32-24 lead at half time and were still in the ascendancy at the end of the crucial third quarter at 49-40, before closing out the contest 66-59.

Skiddy Francis–Crick scored 53 of her 59 attempts, with Rose Clair Hall registering 13 of her 15, to account for Maple’s tally.

For X-Ceed, Mary Ann Fredericks scored 54 of her 58 and Shanice Daniel, 5 from 7.

Maple are seeking to cop their first league title since 2013, as Western Union Mitres had won the last three titles.

Mitres’ hopes of making it four in a row hit a bump when they were defeated by X-Ceed 74-72.

Mitres and Maple clash this Thursday at the Kingstown Netball Centre in the final battle of the heavyweights.

A win for Maple will ensure them the title, while a win for Mitres could mean the winner being determined by goal differential.

If the latter is applied, Maple stands best to lift the title, as they have won their matches with convincing margins.