CHARACTER personified for the Evelyn Partners Jets, as they produced a determined second-half comeback to overturn an eight-goal deficit and secure a 50–47 victory over Worcester Reds at Oakfield Sports Centre on Sunday morning.
Evelyn Partners Jets 50 – Worcester Reds 47
Despite facing the Premier League 3 bottom side, the Jets were made to work hard for the win as Worcester delivered one of their strongest performances of the season, leading for much of the contest.
The visitors made an assertive start, using the height and physicality of their shooters to take early control. Worcester moved into a 10–7 lead and, although the Jets began to settle, the Reds edged the opening quarter 13–12.
The second quarter followed a similar pattern, with the sides trading goals early on. However, the Jets’ passing lacked its usual sharpness and Worcester capitalised, stretching the lead to three at 22–19 before finishing the half strongly to head into the interval 27–21 ahead.
With memories of a narrow 41–39 win in the reverse fixture, Jets captain Rosie Tonner and her side were aware of the challenge they faced and responded quickly after the break, scoring within six seconds of the restart.
That momentum was briefly halted as Worcester again pulled clear, opening up their largest lead of the match at 30–22.
The Jets responded with several tactical changes, including switching Lily Jones to Goal Attack and Grace Thomson (below) to Goal Shooter, and introducing Jacy Brown at centre, moves which helped increase their attacking fluidity.
The hosts gradually reduced the deficit during a hard-fought third quarter, outscoring Worcester 16–12 to trail by just three at 39–36 heading into the final period.
The Jets then took control in the final quarter, quickly drawing level at 40–40 as momentum swung decisively in their favour. Strong defensive work from Becca Forrest, Molly Carre, Jodie Blampied and Sam Salzone disrupted Worcester’s attack, leading to a series of crucial interceptions.
A sustained spell of pressure saw the Jets open up a four-goal lead at 48–44, although Worcester refused to go away and narrowed the gap to 49–47 in the closing minutes.
However, a superb late interception by Salzone proved decisive, allowing the Jets to close out the game and reach 50 points before the final buzzer.
While the scoreline suggests a comfortable win for one of the league’s title contenders, the Jets were forced to show resilience and composure to overcome an inspired Worcester side and maintain their strong home form at Oakfield.
The Jets’ win moves them up into second place in the division following a shock defeat for Exeter away at Hatfield Hawks (43-42).
League leaders Ryland were victorious on the road in their clash however, dominating Northants Storm in a 70-54 win to move to 54 points, with the Jets just two back on 52 and Exeter now slipping to 49 points, still with a game in hand though.
Premier League 3 action continues on 8 February, where the Evelyn Partners Jets travel to take on Hatfield Hawks at Parmiters School in Watford.
Evelyn Partners Jets squad: Rosie Tonner (c), Lily Jones, Grace Thomson, Jacy Brown, Antonia Chaytor, Nicole Goddard, Jodie Blampied, Molly Carre, Samantha Salzone, Rebecca Forrest
Coach: Emily Green
