Written by Maria Thompson
📸 @skysports
On Saturday, May 9th, the Netball Super League saw a pivotal clash in the battle for the top four. The most anticipated matchup was Nottingham Forest vs. London Mavericks—a 4th vs. 5th seed battle with both teams desperate to secure that final playoff spot.
A Tactical Opening
The first quarter started strongly for both sides, but Forest found their rhythm early thanks to the defensive prowess of Tash Pavelin (nicknamed ‘Pavlova’) and the lightning speed of Iona Christian at Center. While Mavericks initially showed superior connections, the Nottingham side relied on the clinical accuracy of Struetker to edge ahead before the first Super Shot period.
Forest coach Chelsea Pitman made a tactical move during the two-point period, bringing on Anya Williams at Goal Attack to provide a long-range scoring threat. By the end of Q1, Forest held a 5-goal lead, looking to settle and extend the gap.
Defensive Battles
Mavericks opened the second quarter by forcing a contact call from the Forest attack, but Pechova responded immediately with a crucial turnover. The high stakes were evident as both sides uncharacteristically coughed up the ball under pressure.
Mavericks struggled to find the right combination in the shooting circle, but Goal Keeper Ellie Sadler kept them in the hunt, increasing the pressure as the half progressed. Despite Sadler’s efforts, Forest pushed the lead to 7. Mavericks attempted to double-team Struetker, but Williams’ movement created the necessary space for Forest to maintain a 7-goal cushion heading into the second half.
The Mavericks Fightback
The momentum swung in the third quarter. While Forest initially extended their lead to 9, the game became "messy" through the midcourt transitions. Handling errors crept into Forest's game, allowing the London side to pounce. Mavericks surged back, narrowing the deficit to just 3 goals entering the final frame.
Five minutes into the last quarter, Chelsea Pitman called a tactical timeout as Mavericks brought the score to within two. The break worked; Forest emerged more composed. However, Mavericks refused to fade, eventually leveling the score at 43-43 with eight minutes remaining.
The Final Push
Discipline became an issue late in the game. Forest’s Wing Defense received a warning for repeated obstruction, but the ‘Pavlova’ defensive unit stood tall to reclaim a 4-goal lead. Shortly after, the Mavericks Center received a similar warning, forcing a London timeout and a late substitution.
In the final four minutes, Nottingham found the "extra gear" they had been searching for, pulling away to a 57-48 victory. The win secures the "double" over the Mavericks and puts Forest in the driver's seat for the top-four finish that eluded them last season.
Player of the Match
The commentary team awarded Player of the Match to Tash Pavelin. Her phenomenal defensive "smarts" often go under the radar, but her performance here was impossible to ignore. Her dominant display raises the inevitable question: has she done enough to earn a spot in the England Roses squad for the next major international tournament?
Looking Ahead:
Forest head into Round 12 to face Loughborough Lightning, while London Mavericks host London Pulse in a highly anticipated derby. Both sides will be watching the scoreboards closely as the race for the top four intensifies.
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