By Ava Featon, English Literature First Year
Welcome to Epigram's exclusive coverage of Derby Day 2024/25. From Football and Lacrosse to Netball and Tennis, here are the stories behind the biggest day for sport at the University. Brought to you by our talented team of writers.
Derby day kicked off with a bang for the UBNC netball leavers. The Bristol side took control from the first whistle and completely dominated the Swansea side. In the first few minutes of the game club captain Chloe Davies (C) set the tone with a cross court interception for her team. Showing a range of skill and creativity, the Bristol leavers proved why they are the most experienced players in UBNC. The shooting pair of Izzy Bangay (GA) and Laurel Hunt (GS) proved huge difficultly for the Swansea defence, ending the first sixth 9-4 to Bristol.
Moving into the second sixth, Bristol continued to put on a thrilling show. With the strong defensive duo of Talia Peleg (GK) and Amy Barnes (GD) turning constant ball in the circle, Bristol ran ahead. Swansea had no answer for the power house that was Tilly Robberts in GA, shooting long bomb after long bomb. Swansea struggled to keep up with the ball speed that Bristol possessed putting them in a 21-9 deficit.
The action continued in the third sixth as Eve Darby (C) and Aimee Cross (WA) maintained the tone on court, sending ball after ball into the safe hands of super shooter Ella Lucas (GS). The Bristol defence struggled to turn ball against the impressive Megan Ewal (GA) and her sharp drives into the circle. Leading Swansea to continue to struggle to claw back the score line of 31-14.
After a stella half time speech from vice captain Izzy Bangay. Bristol continued to thrash Swansea in the fourth sixth. With the injection of Kayla Vine into GK and Bekah Williams into WD, Swansea’s attack barely touched the ball the entire 10 minutes. With Alisha Rai's (WA) rapid drives carrying the ball swiftly through court, Bristol continued to put more goals on the board finishing the sixth with a score of 41-17.
The action continued in the penultimate sixth. The arms over pressure of Amber Blake in centre combined with the fantastic marking from Cara Honey at WD, ensured Swansea struggled to maintain their centre passes. As well as turning ball for fun in the defensive end, the Bristol leavers had no issues in the attacking end either. With Fran Tomassoni out at GA showing off her impressive shooting range, Bristol stormed in front heading into the final sixth at 51-21.
The final sixth was an emotional yet incredible show of talent from the Bristol leavers. Stepping on to the court in their UBNC dresses for the last time, the leavers made the absolute most of it. It was a midcourt masterclass from the get go. With Abbie McCarthy turning a jaw dropping amount of balls at WD, to Maddie Rollit (WA) sending in some spectacular balls into her shooters, Bristol continued to highlight how talented their squad truly is. Not forgetting Abi Barnes at centre controlling the pace of the game beautifully. The Bristol side fought hard and played with heart to end their UBNC journey.
Post Match Comments
Chloe Davies, Club Captain
'This was best possible outcome for our last UBNC game! Taking to the court with the girls for the last time was so much fun but filled with emotion at the same time. It has been such an honour to play and captain this club, UBNC will always have a special place in my heart. Chop a pint in my honour.'
Chantelle Wopara, Head Coach of Bristol Netball
'Today was a truly special day in the calendar – Derby Day! Our leavers faced off against Swansea in an exhilarating game that brought out the best in everyone. For our girls, it was the final opportunity to don the UBNC dress, and they made it count in style.
Every player took the court with enthusiasm, fun, and an undeniable level of quality. It was clear that not only did the team enjoy the game, but they also demonstrated impressive skill and teamwork. There were plenty of new combinations tried, and every single one clicked seamlessly, making the match even more exciting to watch.
In the end, the game concluded with a resounding 67-28 victory. What a way to celebrate the occasion!
A heartfelt thank you to Swansea for the game – we wish your leavers all the best in their next ventures. As for our UBNC leavers, you will be sorely missed. It’s been an absolute privilege working with each of you, and I personally cherish the memories we’ve created together. Good luck on your new paths, and remember to always make time for netball in your future – once a netballer, always a netballer!'
Meet the Team
Top row from left to right: Laurel Hunt, Fran Tomassoni, Aimee Cross, Megan Ewal, Taila Peleg, Tilly Roberts, Izzy Bangay, Eve Darby, Amy Barnes, Amber Blake, Abbie McCarthy.
Bottom Row from left to right: Ella Lucas, Kayla Vine, Noa Shmueli, Chloe Davies, Maddie Rollit, Alisha Rai, Abi Barnes, Bekah Williams, Cara Honey.
Featured image: Ava Featon
