First-ever championship: REME finally experience Army netball title win feeling
In an end-to-end encounter, the REME went in front thanks to their shrewd goal shooter, Laura Ellis. The nip-and-tuck tussle saw the RLC hit back immediately through Jordan Camp.
Several REME players were rolling back the years, including Ellis, who is a former captain of the Army Senior netball side, steering them to Inter Services glory.
Meanwhile, at the other end of the court, the RLC were keen to defend the crown they won last year. They were a constant threat, and Tamara Samuel showed off the skills that had several Super League sides circling for her services a few seasons ago. Goal shooter Samuel was on fine form as the RLC took an 8-7 lead into the half-time break.
With the second half underway, the RLC looked to establish daylight between the teams' scores as Camp maintained her eye for the target.
But with their blend of youth and experience, the REME remained within touching distance of the RLC. The multi-talented Shema Quashie, better known for being a Caribbean cricket international with St Vincent and Grenadines, helped her side by taking on goal shooting duties.
As the final progressed, the REME continued to pour forward and were now inching away, Ellis taking her opportunities to give them a crucial two-goal cushion. With the clock ticking down, Camp was on target once more to reduce the deficit 14-15.
However, by the hooter, the REME had clung on for a memorable victory and the start of some emotional celebrations. Following their history-making win, REME player Major Jenny Thomas said.
"I have assisted and helped, led the team, done all the admin for 29 years, and it means so much to be here and win."
Asked what victory means to her on an individual level, with tears in her eyes, Major Thomas said: "I did say I would retire, but I don't want to now. I want to continue playing, and I want this to happen next year and every year.
"We can definitely do it again; we'll come back stronger next year. We know what we need to do now. Phenomenal, absolutely phenomenal."
Meanwhile, the Division Two title went the way of the Adjutant General's Corps B Team following another absorbing fixture. Goal shooter Keicha Colton-Palmer proved the difference between the AGC and Royal Army Medical Service B Team.
Colton-Palmer made sure her side did enough to withstand a late RAMS fightback as they edged victory. At full time, the AGC enjoyed success 9-7 to claim the Division Two crown.
Join Our Newsletter
