Coach Trish Wilcox has urged Celtic Dragons to show their true colours in Friday’s Vitality Superleague tie at Severn Stars.
Wilcox admitted the squad were disappointed after losing their second game 73-36 to newcomers Sirens Netball in the Super Ten event in Birmingham last Saturday.
Now the Dragons face the Stars who have also lost both games at the start of the season.
Wilcox said: “It was a disappointing performance overall, in particular as there were so many positives to take out of our round 1 game against Team Bath.
“We are on an amazing journey in this league and relish every opportunity to step onto the court and challenge ourselves.
“Against Sirens we deviated away from our identity as a team.
“This week is about us getting back on track and putting out a performance that we as a group and our amazing green army fans can be proud of.”
The first quarter against the Sirens at the Genting Arena was goal for goal with the Dragons taking a lead 8-7, however Sirens finished the quarter one goal ahead: 13-12.
Changes in the second quarter saw Lois Rideout replaced by Wales international Fern Davies as Goal Defence.
Sirens successfully turned over the Dragons ball several times despite a determined green defensive side, whilst the Goal Keeper for Sirens Nicole Pinnock had Dragons attack working over-time.
Another change came for Dragons as Kiwi import Stacey Peeters replaced Kyra Jones at Centre.
Sirens dominated the second quarter despite the Dragons’ best efforts, which left the score at 35-18 at half time.
The travelling Green Army fans could be heard cheering in support of the Dragons as they returned to court, urging their team on going into the second half.
Changes in the third quarter saw Lydia Hitchings come on as GS, Stacey Peeters moved to WD, and GD Rideout and Jones returned for their 2nd appearance of the match.
The third quarter saw the Dragons come out with renewed passion which stemmed the Scottish side’s momentum. The Dragons certainly came back fighting as the game became more physical and competitive.
Mid court players Kyra and Stacey became a dangerous duo, using their experience to shake the Sirens. Sirens replaced their shooter late during the third quarter but the opposition continued to put pressure on the Dragons, leading 53-31 at the end of the penultimate quarter.
Captain Suzy Drane came back to the court at WA in the final quarter. However, Sirens now had the momentum and extended their lead to win 73-36.
Dragons starting 7: Eleanor Roberts (GS), Kalifa McCollin (GA), Bethan Dyke (WA), Kyra Jones (C), Suzy Drane (WD), Lois Rideout (GD), Leila Thomas (GK).
Team Dragons we all have to want it. (Win) it’s like space 1999 going beyond where anyone has ever gone. That’s the heights of the game. “Only Believe” Dragons go Puff Forever!!!
Team Dragons we all have to want it. (Win) it’s like space 1999 going beyond where anyone has ever gone. That’s the heights of the game. “Only Believe” Dragons go Puff Firee!!! Blaze De Trail on Friday!