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Match Report: Vixens v Berkhamsted Ladies, Away 22nd October 2006

0-3 loss: 4-25, 16-25, 21-25

Team : Rebecca Little (Captain), Sara Clarke, Gemma Iannone, Natalia Braciszewska, Annette Ellis, Sophie Collin; Coach: Nicolas Lasbistes.

Officials: Graham Bird (referee), Ivan Dunleavy (second referee), Jem Clark (scorer) & Paul Clarke (assistant scorer).

The Vixens' first match as a new ladies squad in the Herts League against a strong Berkhamsted Ladies side was a great experience for the Vixens. Playing against ex-Vixen Rosie Hawkins, along with 8 other ladies, the Vixens made remarkable progress as a team, as can be seen in the increasing confidence of the ladies and the increasing fight we put up against our opponents.

On one hand we had the advantage of playing a consistent squad throughout the sets (ok, we only had six ladies available so that choice was made for us!), however we used the psychological advantage to the max and strengthened our morale with each substitution that Berkhamsted made. On the other hand, full marks go to the Vixens for their strength and stamina playing three straight sets with energy to spare and great teamwork and encouragement throughout.

Mention goes to Natalia for her strong service, and to Gemma for some very good digs and placing of the ball in the opponents' court. Sara's performance was noteworthy for her strong strategic vision making several tactical volleys into the 'Polo' space and winning well-needed points. Annette and Sophie's strong setting gave middle hitter Rebecca and outside Natalia plenty of good opportunities to kill the ball. The focus of the Vixens' development work is to be done on the block - particularly to cover the opponent in position 4, and in ensuring overarm services are well executed every time.

Our thoughts are with Patricia for a swift recovery from her ankle sprain sustained just days before the match at training, preventing her from playing. Thanks to Emanuele Mazzotta, Phil Mould and son Lyle for their cheerleading(!), as well as to the officials and coach for their support as the Vixens made their league debut.

Set 1 Rotation: (1 to 6): Gemma (OH), Sophie (S), Rebecca (MB), Natalia (OH), Annette (S), Sara (MB).

Set 2 Rotation: (1 to 6): Natalia (OH), Annette (S), Sara (MB), Gemma (OH), Sophie (S), Rebecca (MB).

Set 3 Rotation: (1 to 6): Gemma (OH), Sophie (S), Rebecca (MB), Natalia (OH), Annette (S), Sara (MB).

Rebecca Little