BackSun 01 Feb 2026
MK Dons
Panthers Leopards
31
47
Leopards v MK Dons
Louise Hancock6 Feb - 09:13
Hungry opponents, hungrier Leopards!
Leopards secured a strong win against MK Dons in what proved to be a physical and competitive match. Having beaten MK Dons previously in October (45–35), we knew they would be hungry for revenge on their home court, and they certainly showed that intent from the opening whistle.
MK Dons applied heavy pressure throughout the game, chasing hard for every ball both on and off the body. However, Leopards responded well, showing strength and composure, to manage the physicality and maintain control.
The first quarter was the lowest-scoring for both teams, ending 8–5 to Leopards. Our shooters faced a new MK Dons goal keeper with impressive height and arm span, making scoring opportunities hard to come by. There were turnovers from both sides, but strong defensive work limited goal opportunities at each end. The second quarter remained scrappy at times, with unforced errors from both teams. Leopards then settled into their rhythm and began to assert control, extending the lead to 20–14 by halftime. Tactical switches in both the attacking and defensive circles unsettled MK Dons and shifted the momentum in our favour. Leopards really hit their stride in the third quarter, dominating play and winning the quarter 15–7. This momentum carried through into the final quarter, where the team controlled the game well to finish with a convincing 47–31 win.
Congratulations to Brooke and Isla A, who were awarded OPOM, and Lola and Isla G, who received CPOM. Brooke was outstanding in the defensive circle, using quick footwork and strong arms over the ball to disrupt the shooters. Isla A impressed in the shooting circle with excellent positioning, movement, and shooting accuracy. Lola worked tirelessly across all three defensive positions and played a key role in bringing the ball out of defence following turnovers. Isla G took on a tough first stint against the tall MK Dons GK before transitioning smoothly into WA, showing smart play, strong positioning, and quality feeds into the shooting circle.
Well done to all the girls on a strong all-round team performance!
MK Dons applied heavy pressure throughout the game, chasing hard for every ball both on and off the body. However, Leopards responded well, showing strength and composure, to manage the physicality and maintain control.
The first quarter was the lowest-scoring for both teams, ending 8–5 to Leopards. Our shooters faced a new MK Dons goal keeper with impressive height and arm span, making scoring opportunities hard to come by. There were turnovers from both sides, but strong defensive work limited goal opportunities at each end. The second quarter remained scrappy at times, with unforced errors from both teams. Leopards then settled into their rhythm and began to assert control, extending the lead to 20–14 by halftime. Tactical switches in both the attacking and defensive circles unsettled MK Dons and shifted the momentum in our favour. Leopards really hit their stride in the third quarter, dominating play and winning the quarter 15–7. This momentum carried through into the final quarter, where the team controlled the game well to finish with a convincing 47–31 win.
Congratulations to Brooke and Isla A, who were awarded OPOM, and Lola and Isla G, who received CPOM. Brooke was outstanding in the defensive circle, using quick footwork and strong arms over the ball to disrupt the shooters. Isla A impressed in the shooting circle with excellent positioning, movement, and shooting accuracy. Lola worked tirelessly across all three defensive positions and played a key role in bringing the ball out of defence following turnovers. Isla G took on a tough first stint against the tall MK Dons GK before transitioning smoothly into WA, showing smart play, strong positioning, and quality feeds into the shooting circle.
Well done to all the girls on a strong all-round team performance!
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