Phoenix Heat are the winners of the Bermuda Netball Association Senior League after they defeated title rivals Lindo’s Tigers 49-43 in a tightly contested encounter at Bernard Park on Saturday.

The win, their ninth in a row, meant Erika Russell’s side moves to an unassailable 27 points on the standings with a game to play. Tigers finished second on 26 points, an improvement from last season’s third position.

Heat have now won the league title every year from 2017 2016-2017 aside from when competition was cancelled as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. They had also previously dominated as Lady Bluebirds, winning the title from 2013 to 2016.

On Saturday, goal shooter Danielle Raynor, the best attacker on the night for Heat, led the way with 39 goals, while Ebonie Cox contributed ten points. Stacia Ming was voted MVP, Ayanna Wolfe the best defender, and Raynor the most outstanding attacker for the victorious side.

Jahkenya Trott, the outstanding attacker for Tigers, was the top scorer for Anthony Mouchette’s side with 37 goals, and her twin sister Jahtuere chipped in with six. Micah Pond was voted the best defender for Tigers and MVP went to Diara Benjamin.

Raynor, the Heat captain, spoke of how they managed to keep the Tigers at bay in such an important fixture.

“We really enjoyed playing that match,’’ Raynor said. “In the first quarter, Tigers were up and we took over from the second quarter.

“Tigers definitely brought their A-game, the whole team collectively did. On court, it was a see-saw battle and at times it was hard to determine who was in the lead.

“It was an exciting match for sure, Tigers gave us a good run for our money. I really enjoyed playing in that match, it was very competitive and I always look forward to a very competitive game.

“Our strategy was to remain calm, play according to the whistle and to execute instructions from our coach. We did that and we were successful.

“We fought hard, shout-out to our wing defence Stacia Ming, because we needed some key interceptions and she got them when we needed them.

“She really sacrificed and I saw her push for several interceptions. We needed those to stay ahead and to come out on top.

“Our defensive unit made sure to stick to man-to-man marking to force turnovers and we reaped the benefits when our attacking unit remained patient around the shooting circle.

“A big shout-out to my team, our coach for keeping us on track, and our spectators for coming out to support us.

“Hopefully, our juniors are taking note as we try to create a pathway for them to fill the positions for years to come.’’

In another seniors match played on Saturday, North Village beat Docksiders 51-16.