SENIOR NETBALL: ROUND 9 REVIEW
Each week we’ll be reviewing one match from all seven senior netball divisions, selecting one of the closer games or a key match in the context of the season. Read on to find out what took place across the courts in Round 9.
DIV 1 – Spotswood Gold v Sunshine Schwartz
Despite Coach Maddy Bosanko being away, Spotswood’s experienced players and their tactical knowledge came to the fore in Round 9. Centre Hayley Cran had another standout performance, displaying her skills and intelligence effectively in the midcourt to support Spotswood’s gameplay. Sunshine GS Malia Seumanutafa proved to be a formidable opponent, consistently sinking shots and keeping her side competitive throughout the match. As the game progressed into the fourth quarter, Spotswood held a slight advantage over their opponent with Sunshine being instructed to remain composed and control the tempo of the game. Their strategy involved working cohesively as a unit to create space for their goalers by pushing high and wide, aiming to convert crucial goals. Late in the game Sunshine’s defenders worked diligently to force turnovers and disrupt Spotswood’s attacks. However, in the end it was Spotswood prevailing as they maintained their lead and secured victory, 40-37.
DIV 2 – Wyndhamvale Gold v Glen Orden 2
Glen Orden continued their impressive campaign in Division 2, remaining undefeated and maintaining top spot on the ladder. Glen Orden GS Jasmine Pama, had another outstanding game, demonstrating her ability to create space in the shooting circle and effectively hold her position against her defender. Wyndhamvale coach Keeley Boudrie worked hard to establish connections among her players and generate impact against Glen Orden. Despite Wyndhamvale’s efforts, Glen Orden gradually built a healthy lead heading into halftime. The game remained fiercely contested in the second half, with both teams displaying determination and competitive spirit. Ultimately, Glen Orden proved too strong, their cohesive gameplay and effective strategies helping them maintain control throughout the match. The final score was Glen Orden with a decisive 38-25 triumph.
DIV 3 – YSE Red v Suns Heat
Yarraville Seddon has impressed at times this season, consistently showcasing their diverse skills and dynamics. Guided by Gabby Menabue, who is known for her strategic positional changes and deep understanding of netball, Yarraville Seddon took an early lead against the Suns as they headed into halftime. The Suns, under the guidance of coach Wayne Cachia, rallied to focus on their training and execute their game plan effectively. Shooter Tyler Stevens, was determined to lead her team to victory, scoring an impressive 32 goals from 37 attempts. In the midcourt, Ebony Cachia of the Suns and Yarraville Seddon’s Nicola Verhoef performed strongly, competing fiercely, and showcasing their skills in ball distribution and defensive pressure. One decisive factor for the Suns was their rotation of fresh players from the bench, which injected energy and maintained intensity throughout the game. This proved crucial as the Suns managed to edge out Yarraville Seddon with the final score, 37-34.
DIV 4 – YSE Blue v Lakers 4
Division 4 has had a number of contests go right down to the wire and the Round 9 match between YSE Blue and Lakers 4 just added to that list. Yarraville Seddon centre Naomi Hargreaves emerged as a pivotal player, demonstrating her ability to create space across the court and force crucial turnovers for her team. Her skill in pushing the ball seamlessly to the circle edge helped open up scoring opportunities for GS Pippa Nolan, who utilised her knowledge and expertise under the post to contribute significantly to Yarraville Seddon East’s scoring efforts. On the sidelines, Coach Low from the Lakers drew on his extensive netball knowledge to guide his players, implementing rolling substitutions to find the optimal combinations on the court. This approach aimed to maximize the Lakers’ performance and adapt to the challenges posed by the opposition. As the game advanced into its final minutes the two teams remained evenly matched and despite the best efforts of both a decisive goal couldn’t be achieved with the match ending in a thrilling draw, the score 33-33 at the final whistle.
DIV 5 – Albanvale Blue v Parkside 1
Albanvale Blue had a challenge on their hands in against Parkside 1 in Round 9 and they started well staying competitive and keeping pace with one of divisions top teams. The first quarter was a close contest with both teams matching each other goal for goal. As the game progressed Parkside’s strength and agility allowed them to build a solid buffer over Albanvale with GA Niam Hynes a key player in the circle, netting crucial goals and contributing significantly to her team’s offensive efforts. Despite Albanvale’s efforts to remain in touch, the pace and tactics of Parkside saw the margin widen as the match went on. In the end Parkside emerged victorious, posting a 37-26 win.
DIV 6 – Manor Lakes 2 v PCCSC Mako Sharks
After taking down division leaders Glen Orden the previous week, Mako Sharks were out to cause another upset against second placed Manor Lakes 2. Sharks GK Toni Anne Pikari faced a challenging task against dynamic shooter Cody Sylvester. Sylvester’s accuracy in the circle posed a constant threat, requiring Pikari to stay alert and agile throughout the game. In the midcourt, Nikaylah Danby shone brightly for the Sharks, playing wing attack. Her ability to move swiftly across the court and her excellent vision distributing the ball was a major factor in the Sharks’ offensive strategies. The match was tightly contested with both teams showcasing their strengths and tactical manoeuvres. However, it was the Mako Sharks who managed to find a little extra. Their determination and teamwork was particularly evident in the final quarter as they capitalised on their opportunities to edge out Manor Lakes by a single goal securing a 20-19 victory.
DIV 7 – West Footscray White v Suns Rising
There were more close results across Division 7 and West Footscray White and Suns Rising were again involved, this time when the two faced off in Round 9. The match saw intense competition, highlighted by the strong and strategic defense of West Foostcray GK Liz Earl. Her ability to read the game and disrupt the opposition’s attacks was crucial throughout the game. Suns attacker Marie Dun made a commendable contribution, scoring 15 goals from 20 attempts, and was well supported by Alyssa Tullio (C) and Rebecca Edwards (WA). The Suns’ confidence in Dun’s ability to score consistently kept the game competitive till the end. However, it was West Foostcray GS Kasey Rutland who would be the difference, executing under pressure to net a decisive final goal. The 21-20 result was a significant upset which gave West Footscray their first win of divisional play, while being the first loss for Suns after opening with four straight victories.