Contributed by reader KLaTAN

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Chong Boon’s goal attack (GA) Jiawen takes aim while St Theresa’s goalkeeper (GK) defends. (Photo © KLaTAN)

NUS Sports & Recreation Centre, Wednesday, January 30, 2008 – Chong Boon Secondary qualified for the next round despite a 19-24 loss to St Theresa’s Convent in an exciting South Zone B Division Netball Championship game.

St Theresa's Convent came into the game aware that defeat would spell the end of their campaign this year, after having lost a game to Whitley Secondary earlier on in the season. Chong Boon on the other hand, could afford to lose by no more than 7 goals to avoid an exit. A loss of 6 goals meant a 3-way tie.

The stage was therefore all set for a scintillating afternoon of netball. The scorching heat of the afternoon sun served perhaps as a preview of what was to transpire on the courts.

The game started with both teams playing tentatively. St Theresa's looked the more stable of the two teams with their smooth passes. They quickly raced to a 2-0 lead before Chong Boon started getting their act together. The Theresians seemed the hungrier team as they jumped and stretched for every ball. Chong Boon on the other hand, appeared edgy, fumbling on some easy shots. The quarter ended 7-3 in St Theresa's favour.

The next 2 quarters were all St Theresa's as they played at a feverish pace to widen the gap. Perhaps due to nervousness, the Chong Boon girls were having trouble with their passing as many balls were misdirected or intercepted. The Theresians were everywhere, especially their Center who was evidently a key player for her team. The 3rd quarter ended with St Theresa's having a very healthy lead and well on their way to a qualification spot.

The 4th quarter proved the most exciting one of the game as both teams turned on the heat and came out firing on all cylinders. Chong Boon, having made a few key substitutions, were now playing much better. Consistent shooting by substitute GS, Stella, proved the key to victory as she netted some crucial baskets. Frantic calls and screams could be heard as the Theresians saw their lead slowly whittled down. It was now all up to the St Theresa girls to stop Chong Boon's great comeback. Chong Boon were the stronger of the two teams in the final quarter with more fluid passing and confident shooting. As the final whistle blew, the game ended, 24-19 in St Theresa's favour. The Theresians had won the battle but not the war as the result meant that they were out of running for a place in the 2nd round based on goal difference. Chong Boon, having lost by less than the required seven goals to avoid a three-way tie, qualified for the 2nd round to render their final game against CHIJ (Toa Payoh) inconsequential. Credit must go to the two teams who had played their hearts out with good sportsmanship.