Cowie Blacks hopes of a win were dashed by a quick young Newtonhill team in an exciting yet ultimately frustrating match for the Stonehaven based side. 

The latest ADNA Division 2 fixture began with the Blacks winning the toss up and opting for the first centre, however Newtonhill sprung into action and scored two swift goals.  Play moved quickly and the Blacks were slow to get into their stride; Newtonhill never lost their early lead and they closed the first quarter 12-9 leaders.

 An unchanged Blacks team started the second quarter with a more attacking game, which began to pay dividends as the goals went in.  Unfortunately a mix up with the alternating centre pass after a scored goal allowed Newtonhill three centres in a row, which they used to their advantage with three straight goals.  Beautiful shooting from the Black’s Leanne Thomson and Claire Buckley was matched by almost flawless Newtonhill shooting.  Even a dying second penalty conversion by Thomson wasn’t enough to completely close the gap and Newtonhill remained in the lead 21-19 at half time.

 It was hoped a fresh pair of legs at centre would allow the Blacks to maintain their attack in the third quarter, however Newtonhill closed down play and the Blacks were pressurised into mistakes.  In desperation the Blacks opted for risky long passes, which were easily intercepted or flew past the fingertips of the waiting player. Netwonhill took advantage of every ball they were given and extended their lead to eight goals with a score of 33-25 at the end of the quarter.

 The Blacks were urged to calm their play and look for the easy passes and they tried their best to oblige.   There were occasions when the Blacks were able to create space using square passes and a change of pace, which worked the ball efficiently from the defence up to the attack in the circle.  But Newtonhill’s defence held strong while at the other end their attack maintained form and the Blacks had just too much to do to catch Newtonhill.  Final score 42-33.

Vicki Corbett’s continued hard work and assured presence once again earned her the award of Cowie player of the match.