Blackpool netball star Eleanor Cardwell helps Manchester Thunder to winning start in title defence

It was a scrappy start by the 2019 champions after last season was abandoned after just a few weeks due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The Scottish side led 12-8 after the opening quarter, but then Thunder created more opportunities for Bispham-based goal attack Cardwell and goal shooter Joyce Myulva as their side edged ahead 23-19 at half-time.

From there Thunder gradually stretched their lead and scored 20 goals in the final quarter against the gritty Glasgow-based side.

Thunder head coach Karen Greig said: “Definitely not happy with the start but we gradually chipped away and got there in the end.”

The announcement of Superleague’s return was made only two weeks ago, with Covid-19 restrictions having complicated the process of launching the campaign.

Matches are being played at two venues, Studio 001 in Wakefield and the Copperbox Arena in London, with the season building towards a Grand Final on June 27.

While the Thunder can certainly be excused some ring rustiness, Cardwell has seen some action in recent months.

The 26-year-old had a fine series for England in New Zealand in the autumn and featured for her country again in last month’s matches against a Superleague Allstars side.

Thunder face London Pulse in their second match of the season on Sunday evening.

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