By Amy Knapton 

The University of Huddersfield once again dominated the University of Bradford in high-intensity netball. Huddersfield won 61-16, with goals scored in the first seconds of the match.  

As soon as the umpire blew the whistle, Huddersfield began with only one ambition behind them. The team’s desire was seen in their performance, as they won back the majority of the ball and kept possession throughout all four quarters.  

It took under a minute for Huddersfield to lead by one goal, which quickly multiplied. Huddersfield’s goal attack and goal shooter partnered nicely in the goal circle to combine and get more points on the board for the home side.  

With Bradford having the centre pass after total Huddersfield control, they managed to pass the ball nicely across the wing attack to the goal attack, which led to them getting their first goal of the match. The Bradford fans enjoyed that and got back behind their team, giving them the encouragement they needed.  

Once the second quarter started, it was all Huddersfield again, with Bradford’s defensive trio not standing a chance against the dynamic Huddersfield attackers. Passes were flowing nicely across the court for the home side, which again saw them get more points on the scoreboard. 

With Bradford falling further behind, they struggled to get the ball past the halfway line due to Huddersfield’s team working effortlessly in defence to make sure they got the ball back. The Huddersfield goalkeeper was a key player in stopping any of Bradford’s attacks; she partnered up well with her goal defence to keep Bradford out.  

With the final two quatres approaching, Huddersfield swapped their team out with their substitutes. This was the first year netball was being played as the first and second teams merged. The team on the court may have changed, but the intensity and effort of the players didn’t. Bradford didn’t manage to bring as many substitutes as Huddersfield, which saw Huddersfield’s fresh legs competing against tired ones.  

The Huddersfield centre took complete charge on the court, slowing down the game and helping the home side win. The wing attack and wing defence partnered up nicely to make passes and score even more points for Huddersfield.  

Huddersfield was named 2025 netball Varsity winners to add to the University’s running success against Bradford, which saw them complete the three-peat against their local rivals.