Spurs lift Elite League crown

Manchester Spurs claimed back-to-back Seprod Netball Jamaica Elite League titles after defeating St Ann Orchids 50-48 last night at the National Arena to clinch the best of three finals 2-0.

Spurs took the first match 62-54 last Friday.

Spurs coach Rasheed Josephs said he was very proud of the team after the victory.

“It was very exciting. It has been a phenomenal netball season for me personally. This Elite League, the highest league in Jamaica, it really puts the cap on a fantastic season,” Josephs said.

Although it is still early, Josephs said he is already making plans to claim the title again next season.

“It would be wonderful if we could keep this cohort of girls,” he said.

Orchids coach Dalton Hines said they are disappointed with the loss, but he commended the effort from his players.

“I thought it was really a gutsy performance ... to hold the Manchester Spurs to a two-goal deficit, it is really commendable,” he said

Last night was close in the opening minutes of the first quarter until Manchester Spurs broke away to lead 14-11.

Spurs then showed their class to stretch their lead to 27-20 by the half time whistle.

After the break, St Ann Orchids kept close to their rivals, and at the end of the third quarter, the Spurs’ lead was cut to four at 39-35.

With less than three minutes to go in the final quarter, Orchids got down Spurs’ lead to two goals but could get no closer.

Spurs goal shooter Shantel Slater led the way for her team with 40 goals from 44 attempts.

Team captain and goal attack Shanice Beckford was named MVP of the finals.