ARGYLL and Bute under-15 netball squad enjoyed a successful tournament in Edinburgh recently, picking up victories and a great deal of credit from tough oppenents.

The girls travelled to Meadowbank Stadium in Edinburgh on Saturday, January 25 for their Netball Scotland B Academies Day to compete against other district teams from Renfrewshire, Angus, Aberdeen and Perth, The youngsters got off to a good start and came from behind to defeat a Renfrewshire side who had been 3-0 up early on.

However, an interception from Rona Wilson was esasily converted by Lydia Porter-Smith to give the squad the lift they needed, setting them on their way to a 12-10 victory.

The squad settled down to watch their next oppenents during the break and it became clear from watching both Perth A and B that their B squad was by far the stronger.

This did not phase the girls and they started well with a goal for goal with Eleanor Young. The defensive trio of Anne Young (goalkeeper), Rona Wilson and Eilidh McNaughton took control of the court and were able to restrict Perth’s attack with Wilson intercepting on occasion.

However, Argyll and Bute were unable to convert these interceptions and allowed Perth to grab a two goal lead, resulting in a 10-12 defeat.

Due to travel issues, the Aberdeen squad were unable to attend the competition and it was agreed that Argyll and Bute would play a friendly against Renfrewshire A.

Wilson and Grace Laverty were rested for the match due to injury but again the squad started strongly and it was goal for goal at half time.

A couple of missed goals and rebounds allowed Paisley to take a one goal advantage with the final score ending up 12-11 to Paisley.

Despite this defeat the girls proved they were able to compete with A teams and should relish the challenge of stepping up to the A group next season.

The final game of the day against Angus B finished a successful day for the Argyll and Bute side with a 11-5 victory over their oppenents.

The squad travel to Dundee for their final academies day on March 1 before competing in the inter-district tournament in Perth on March 29. This will see the side compete against A teams from other areas and will provide a stern challenge for the girls.

Squad from Janurary 25: Mackenzie Serpell, Rona Wilson, Eilidh McNaughton, Kate Addo, Eleanor Young, Lydia Porter Smith, Anne Young, Mhairi Cromar, Grace Laverty and Iona Stewart.