By Mhairi Moore

Notre Dame’s senior girls’ netball team gave an impressive performance in the Scottish School’s Cup semi-final last week and stormed straight into tomorrow’s (Friday) final.

At home last Thursday, Notre Dame defeated St Andrew’s High School, from Paisley, by 60 – 44. The game started off with nerves from the visitors as Notre Dame were able to take an early lead. Throughout the first quarter, the crowds who gathered to watch the tasty cup tie, were treated to an impressive display of teamwork and determination as the Notre Dame girls took control.

During the second quarter, Notre Dame’s slick, well-organised senior team clearly had their tactics locked in and it was clear to see that everyone knew exactly what they were doing. Lori Dow and Beth McCowan took charge of a formidable attacking force, both girls managing to maintain possession of the ball and pass it to teammates, Alanna Buchan and Eve Mitchell, who couldn’t stop scoring for Notre Dame.  A solid defence greeted the Paisley side in the form of Notre Dame’s Sophie Craig, Samantha Williams and Lucy McFarlane whose job it was to re-gain possession of lost balls and to keep the opposing team from scoring.

In the final two quarters, Notre Dame’s high-flying girls turned it up a notch when St Andrew’s appeared to show signs of fatigue. By the start of the final quarter, Notre Dame were in lead by 10 goals and, by final whistle, the girls finished the game off with an impressive 16 goal advantage.

The senior girls, who have now been together for several years under the leadership of coach Claire Munn, face Peebles High School in the Scottish Cup finals tomorrow (Friday afternoon) in Motherwell.

At the end of the game, co-captains Alanna Buchan and Samantha Williams spoke exclusively to Notre Dame Now.

Team captain Samantha, S6, said: “We were beaten in the final last year so it’s great to be getting another chance. It was nice because this is our last year in the team, and it will also be nice to redeem ourselves this year – hopefully.”

Fellow captain, Alana Buchan added: “It was a really good result, before the game everyone was a bit anxious. We were a bit sceptical about winning as they have a few very good players, so I’m happy we came out with a win.”

Delighted coach Claire Munn said: “I am really pleased with the results, the girls played well and it was an important game and season as it is the sixth year we’ve been working with this team.”

Principal teacher of PE, Mr Armour, was also courtside and added: “The success of this team is phenomenal. Their consistency at a high level is a testament to their hard work. Well done to them all!”