LEEDS Rhinos have come from behind to run over the top of Surrey Storm and secure the one-goal Vitality Netball Superleague (VNSL) victory. It kicked off Round 17 of action on Friday night, with the standalone game tkaing place at the Allam Sports Centre, and the contest living up to all expectations.

Leeds Rhinos fought back from a four-goal deficit at the first two breaks to come home with a wet sail and secure a one-goal win over Surrey Storm, 49-48. Two mid-table sides who were desperate to pick up a win ahead of the final run home to the post-season series, it was the visiting Storm who raced out to a four-goal advantage at the first break. After a high-scoring first term of 32 goals (18-14), just 18 goals were scored in the second (9-9) and the Storm lead 27-23. The Rhinos found their groove in the second half, cutting into the deficit by one in the third term, before coming of the top of the Storm with a 14-10 final term and securing the memorable 49-48 victory.

Sigrid Burger scored the match-winner on the final buzzer, her 43rd goal of the game, shooting at 89.5 per cent accuracy. She also picked up two rebounds and one deflection in the win. Sienna Rushton was the other key shooter with six goals from nine attempts, as Brie Tyler Grierson (none from five) was well held. Amelia Hall impressed in wing attack with a game-high 30 feeds, whilst Vicki Oyesola (eight deflections, five turnovers, one intercept and one rebound) and Rebekah Airey (four intercepts. one rebound and four turnovers) were strong in the defensive goal circle.

For the Storm, Felisitus Kwangwa (three intercepts, four deflections, one rebound and four turnovers) was sensational, as Leah Middleton fought through to three intercepts, four deflections, two rebounds and seven turnovers. Peace Proscovia (37 goals from 40 attempts) was strong in attack, with Yasmin Parsons (18 feeds) returning well, whilst leader Mikki Austin had 11 feeds, three deflections, two turnovers and one intercept in the loss.

Leeds Rhinos play host to Manchester Thunder on Sunday afternoon, whilst Surrey Storm next play in Round 18 against Saracens Mavericks on Saturday, May 14.