Manchester seek Elite League redemption

Assistant coach of Manchester Spurs Anniece Ebanks insists this year’s Red Stripe Flavours Netball Elite League final will not end in disappointment for them when they take on defending champions Kingston Hummingbirds in a repeat of last season’s decider at the National Indoor Sport Centre today at 7:30 p.m.

Ebanks recounted last year’s experience when they had their opponents against the ropes for most of the game, but lapsed in the last period and allowed the Hummingbirds to rally and take the title.

However, after winning all their games on their way to the final this term, Ebanks said they impatiently await the final, promising it will be a different outcome this time.

“We are very eager. Last year will definitely not repeat itself. We will ensure that. We have been having a very good season and we will ensure that it does not end disappointingly,” she told The Gleaner.

Manchester Spurs boast players like Shanise Beckford, Mone Wilmot, Kaedean Gordon, Quannie Walker and Australian Hannah Kuhar.

While the Hummingbirds will look to players like Paula-Ann Burton, Tracy-Ann Francis, Zenesha Hinds, and Tania Thomas to repeat their last season’s feat.

Despite coming into the game as overwhelming favourites, Ebanks said they will not take their opponents lightly, especially with what happened last term.

“We never come out with the intention to underestimate anyone. The ball is round and anything can happen.

“It (semi) was a good performance and the game coming up is a must-win for us, but there are a few things we have to tighten up in the centre court. So we have gone back to the drawing board to tighten up those areas for Sunday,” she said.

Coach of the Hummingbirds Kerry-Ann Brown also pointed out that the ball is round and that they fancy pulling off another upset over their more fancied opponents. However, she insists consistency will be key for her team.

“Once the ladies stay consistent in everything. Consistency in shooting, consistency in marking and proper passes, we should be able to pull it off.

“In the semis we weren’t consistent. We were hot and cold and we almost paid, but the ladies are strong and they communicated on court and that worked out for us.

“However, consistency is key. We have two training sessions before the final and we are really putting in some work to take on the final,” she said.

She noted that Manchester have beaten all that have faced them this year, but that she is still confident in her team’s ability to get it done when it matters.

“The final is going to be challenging. Last year Manchester Spurs didn’t lose any game. They blew through everyone but they lost in the final.

“This year they were our opening game and we lost to them, and we are just looking to come back on Sunday and just give our best,” she commented.

livingston.scott@gleanerjm.com