Brianna Ray displayed her all-round sporting prowess by picking the MVP accolade for Lindo’s Tigers at the start of the Netball Bermuda Winter League on Saturday.

Ray, who is better known for her cricketing skills, played in attack for the champions as they defeated Phoenix Heat 35-17 at Bernard Park. Jahkenya Trott led the scoring with 18 goals, her twin sister Jahtuere chipped in with 13 points, while Diara Benjamin found the target four times.

Khianda Pearman-Watson, the Tigers captain, was pleased with Ray’s contribution in her first match for the club.

“We are very excited for this new season,” Pearman-Watson told The Royal Gazette.

“Seven of our Tigers players trained diligently within the national programme in preparation for our trip to Sint Maarten, and we’ve been incorporating everything learnt into our team sessions. Above all, we love the sport and that’s what keeps us going.

“Despite challenging weather conditions, the team fought hard and secured our first win. Both sides displayed quality netball, but our shooters, Diara Benjamin, Jahtuere Trott and Jahkenya Trott, helped us pull ahead.

“Our solid midcourt line-up, including Kaylee Lema and Jordyn Ming, moved the ball effectively up the court supported by our newest member, Brianna Ray, who showcased her extensive knowledge and experience in netball.

“In defence, Demiqua Daniels, Zariah Amory and I were able to create multiple interceptions and turnovers that contributed significantly to our victory.”

Tigers vice-captain Daniels applauded her team-mates for starting off their title defence on a positive note.

“Firstly, I would like to commend my team on an awesome first game of the season,” she said.

“Unfortunately, our coach [Anthony Mouchette] wasn’t present, but with all his hard work leading up to the season, he did a wonderful job in preparing us for our first game.

“Despite the wet conditions, we stuck to our game plan which was to stick to the basics of netball and drive to the ball. Most importantly, we knew we had to support and encourage each other throughout the game, which played a major part in our victory.”

Heat MVP Kianté Lightbourne thought that her side did not capitalise on their chances.

“It was good to get back on the court for Heat,” the Bermuda vice-captain said.

“Every new season brings new challenges, but we are excited to see what this next season looks like for us. Similar to last year, our side will feature youth players mixed in with some more experience.

“What that looks like may change from week to week, but we are committed to leaving it all on the court and being competitive out there. On Saturday, I think we made it tough for Tigers but didn’t really reward ourselves on the opportunities we created.”

The match between Tigers and Heat was the only Premier Division encounter to proceed. An earlier fixture between St George’s and North Village was postponed due to rain.