Cardiff Dragons came out firing, securing the first points of the game and immediately applying pressure in the early minutes. London Mavericks soon matched this tempo and intensity, finding themselves level very shortly after.
Dragons’ intensity tested Mavericks’ defence, but the team remained composed, battling back with quick responses to keep the game evenly poised. Despite Dragons’ fast start, Mavericks held their ground, matching Cardiff’s energy and responding with determination to stay in the contest. Trading goals and staying in touch as the quarter unfolded, we went into the second quarter trailing by one.
In the closing stages of the second quarter, Emily Andrew stepped up to narrow the gap to just two points. Even with the chaos surrounding her, she remained composed under pressure, finding a way to convert crucial shots and keep Mavericks within touching distance.
As the second half began, Mavericks came out with great urgency, clearly carrying the intent from the halftime team talk onto the court. The message was evident in the team’s playing style – sharp, aggressive, and determined to take control of the game. Introduced from the bench, Kira Rothwell wasted no time making her presence impactful, injecting energy into the attack and creating opportunities for the team to put themselves in front.
Play was briefly suspended due to a non-contact injury to Vicki Oyesola. Chelsea Blackman entered the court in Oyesola’s absence. Making her NSL debut, she was keen to make an early impression. Momentum shifted massively in favour of London Mavericks late into the third quarter as we capitalized on our opportunities and limited Dragons’ access in and around Mavericks’ shooting circle.
In the final quarter, Mavericks dominated with a powerful display of intensity and precision. Ellie Rattu was on a mission, applying relentless pressure, with non-stop movement and full-throttle urgency that left Cardiff scrambling.
She was everywhere, the captain leading by example in the midcourt. Both Chelsea Blackman and Emily Andrew made impressive NSL debuts, stepping up with huge attacking and defensive pressure.
Chelsea showcased her ability to force errors in and around Cardiff’s shooting circle whilst Emily proved once again how accurate she can be Infront of goal—what a way to introduce themselves to the NSL!
The defensive partnership between Razia Quashie and Blackman was a masterclass in reading the game, shutting down space and cranking up the pressure to constrict Cardiff’s attack.
As the clock ticked down, Suzie Liverseidge and Emily Andrew linked up perfectly, deep in the Dragons’ half to take control of the final stages of the game bringing the victory home. Cardiff Dragons 56 – 65 London Mavericks.