Lightning keep title hopes alive with Derby win

Match report |

Loughborough Lightning

77

Nottingham Forest

57

Vic Burgess and Jo Noel celebrating Lightning win

Loughborough Lightning power into the next stage of the league with a commanding 77–57 victory over Nottingham Forest in the East Midlands derby.

Lightning set the tone early with a sharp start on both ends of the court, building momentum through disciplined defensive pressure and clinical finishing in the shooting circle. Although Forest stayed within touching distance during the opening exchanges, the hosts gradually asserted control through a strong second quarter that began to open up a decisive gap.

A dominant third quarter proved pivotal, with Lightning outscoring their opponents by 11 goals to extend their advantage into a commanding 18-goal lead heading into the final period. From there, they maintained control, managing the game effectively to close out a comprehensive win in front of their home support.

Jo Noel rolled back the years with an outstanding all-round performance and was deservedly named the Experience Kissimmee Player of the Match. Her leadership formed a key part of a disciplined Lightning defensive unit that consistently disrupted Forest’s attacking flow and limited their scoring opportunities throughout the contest.

There was also a welcome return for Alice Harvey, who impressed after her time on the sidelines with injury. Harvey made an immediate impact, recording five gains and three pickups in a confident performance that highlighted her importance to the Lightning defence as she continues her return to full fitness.