Cumberland Premier 3 Division Match Report

Cumberland traveled up to Chester this weekend for the beginning of round two in the Premier 3 division, hopeful to replicate their 41-26 win in the first round.  The goal count in this game was much higher, largely due to improved shooting performances from both teams.
 
Cumberland started strong and built a lead of around seven points in the first quarter, due to some tight midcourt marking from Christina Fitzgerald & Becky Swarbrick and accurate shooting.  Despite pushing the Chester shooters wide, the Goal Shoot was hitting points from within a foot of the circle edge, keeping Cumberland’s defence frustrated. 
 
The game was secured with Cumberland winning the second quarter 19-7 to take a 19 goal lead.  The following third quarter Cumberland won 13-8, which saw a few patches of poor play lowering the quarter scores, and a change in Cumberland’s circle defence finally shaking the long-range Chester Goal Shoot.
 
Chester were high spirited and fought strongly in the final quarter, winning 14-13 as the long range shooting accuracy returned and Cumberland failed to control the ball on attack.
 
The final score was 61-38, with nearly a 100 goals scored in the game illustrating a controlled and enjoyable game for spectators.  The win and goal difference pushed Cumberland to second spot in the league, eying first place with a top of the table clash set up with Evesham Reds this weekend