Lightning overcome Panthers to move second in NSL
Loughborough Lightning secured a tense victory over Birmingham Panthers to move up to second in the Netball Super League.One point separated the two at half-time, but Lightning edged a four-goal lead in the third quarter and held on for a 72-68 success.Fresh from their first win of the season last week, Panthers were brimming with confidence at Sir David Wallace Arena and made it difficult for the hosts.But the defending champions kept their composure as experienced Lightning shooter Samantha Wallace-Joseph scored 34 goals, while England goal attack Berri Neil added 16.But Panthers had their opportunities and will consider themselves unlucky not to come away with more than the one point they will receive for keeping the deficit to less than five goals.Shooter Sigi Burger was clinical under the post, scoring 37 goals, while Betsy Creak added 10 and the defence worked tirelessly to gain possession of the ball 16 times to 10 from their opponents.Lightning have stuttered at times this season but will be relieved to get over the line before facing a crucial match against fellow top-four contenders Manchester Thunder next week.Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest secured a third win of the season with a 76-60 win over Leeds Rhinos.The two sides were level on points with two wins and four losses so far in this campaign but, after a close first half, Forest dominated the second and pulled away for a comfortable win.On Sunday, London Pulse will aim to maintain their 100% NSL record after six games this season against Cardiff Dragons, before Manchester Thunder host London Mavericks on Monday and you can watch it live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app.
Fixtures and results
Round sevenFriday 25 AprilLeeds Rhinos 60-76 Nottingham Forest NetballLoughborough Lightning 72-68 Birmingham PanthersSunday 27 AprilLondon Pulse v Cardiff Dragons (18:00 BST)Monday 28 AprilManchester Thunder v London Mavericks (19:00 BST) - live on BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport website & app, and on demand
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