Worcester Wolves 35-63 Loughborough Lightning

Sunday 19^th March 2023

By Ria Kaur

Worcester Wolves were defeated by Loughborough Lightning with the match ending 35-63. The Wolves were hoping to put up a high score but struggled to build momentum throughout the game.

Despite losing the tip off Wolves manage to score the first two points of the match with a jump shot made by Jade Loughlin. They did not lead for long as Loughborough’s Anastasia Blease responded with 2 points for the Lightning.  Loughborough scored consistently with shots from Anastasia Blease and Siobhan Fitzpatrick, allowing them to lead by 12 halfway through the first quarter and Wolves still stuck on 2pts. (2-14). Worcester was unable to build on their score due to shots being missed and struggled to pick up the pace to keep up with lightnings growing score. Loughborough continued to dominate the first quarter with their strong defence as well as offense. Wolves were able to get into a stronger defensive position and found some scoring opportunities. The quarter ended 10-16 with Wolves trailing by 6.

Going into the second quarter Lightning kept control over the game scoring a further 8 points in the first part increasing their lead and Wolves now trailing by 14. Worcester was looking to make a return into the game with Sarah hope and Kayla Bell picking up another 5 points for the Wolves. However, Loughborough continued to accelerate their game  with Lucy Robinson, Bo Kramer and Robyn Love coming on and gaining 20 points, the quarter ending 17-36 with Wolves trailing by 19

After half-time Loughborough picked up where they left off increasing their lead to 25, the score now 17-42. Worcester needed a high scoring quarter to make a real comeback into the game, unfortunately they were unable to take advantage of opportunities to score due to Loughborough’s strong defensive tactics. Ellen Fraser finally scored Wolves their first points of the quarter, but Worcester was not able to build the momentum they needed to reduce the lead held by Loughborough and the quarter ended 23-48

Worcester scored the first points of the last quarter with Jade Loughlin and Sarah Hope picking up a quick four points. However, Worcester struggled to remain consistent with their shooting, which ultimately meant they could not keep up with Loughborough who were able to regularly build on their score. Worcester continued to fight to close the gap, but the game eventually ended 35-63.

Wolves Sarah Hope and Lightnings Bo Kramer were the top scorers of the game both picking up 13 points for their side. Both players also had the most rebounds with Hope getting 8 and Kramer 11.

Worcester’s next match will be another home game against Cardiff Met Archers on Saturday 25^th March at 4pm.