Although Lincoln University A has a lot of new faces in its line up this year the early signs would suggest they may be on track to defend their title later in the season.

Lincoln took time to settle but finished the first quarter with a six goal run to lead at the first quarter break, 12 – 9.

Lincoln impressed with their speed and timing throughout the game looking slick through the mid court as they released the ball quickly so St Nicholas were left chasing.

The defensive trio of Kate Lloyd, Laura Axcell and Lily Fletcher made it difficult for St Nicholas to get the ball into their shooters with Lloyd coming out of the circle to make several intercepts.

When St Nicholas was able to slow Lincoln down they did achieve tips and deflections from marking the ball carrier.

Lincoln scored consistently for three quarters with St Nicholas closing the gap on the scoreboard in the fourth where Lincoln weathered the increase in physicality to maintain their lead and take the game 44 – 39.

Saints had control of their game against Lincoln University B at the half time break with a four goal lead. Changes to the Lincoln lineup enabled them to turn around the score line to lead by four at the end of the third quarter.

Saints will be ruing their missed opportunities as their passing became wayward, under the pressure from Lincoln, struggling to convert their turnover ball.

Lincoln University B completing the double for the club, winning 47-39 over Saints.

Marist Albion had a close tussle with St Margarets winning 45-44.

Whilst St Nicholas had to hold off a last quarter fight back from Kia Toa to win 49-48.

Results:

Lincoln University A 44 (Natalie Allen 11/16, B James 20/24, Kate Grant 13/18) beat St Nicholas A 39 (Lauren Robb 21/28, Grace Jones 18/29).  Quarter scores:  12-9, 24-17, 37-25, 44-39.

Marist Albion A 45 (K Boyle 31/42, S Shamy 3/8, B Johnson 7/14, B Hori TePa 4/5) beat St Margarets 44 (E Wells 17/23, K Sinclair 22/35, B Pope McCaw 5/7). Quarter scores: 13-11, 24-25, 31-33, 44 – 45.

St Nicholas B 49 (B Parker 42/51, Tiara Esera 5/16, A Argus 2/6) beat Kia Toa 48 (Radha Petero 31/39, Laura Lowe 17/20).  Quarter scores:  12-11, 27-21, 41-33, 49-48.

Lincoln University B 47 (E Stiven 24/28, C Robb 7/13, P Harris 16/20) beat Saints 39 (Zar Fa’avae 3/4, Taylor Rosie-Forrester 7/11, Alice Eddington 29/34) Quarter scores:  12-13, 20-24, 33-29, 47-39.