SAILING, UFC, NETBALL, ORIENTEERING

Kingston downs premiers in tight tussle

KINGSTON Blues continued their impressive start to the southern Premier League netball season with a 36-31 win over reigning premier AYC.

Kingston won the grand final in 2016 but missed out on making the finals last year.

The return of experienced key players, including Rebecca Strong, Lindy Aplin and Jen Hanlon, has really helped the team get off to a flying start under new coach Pete Visser.

Kingston struggled to gel in its attacking end at the start of the game. AYC looked dangerous early, with its quick defensive transitions into a smooth attacking end finished off beautifully by Reagan Davie. As Kingston settled, AYC took the slimmest of leads into the break with scores at 10-9.

The game turned into a scrappy, low-scoring affair in the second quarter.

AYC’s Nat Smedley worked hard in defence but was matched by Kingston’s EmilyKate Garvey and Jen Hanlon at the other end.

Scores were tied at 15-all heading into the second half. The defensive style of play continued throughout the remainder of the game, with Kingston struggling to penetrate into the attacking third while AYC struggled with efficiency and finding any rhythm.

With one goal separating the teams at the final break, Kingston was able to take control in the last quarter.

It was able to score consecutively, while remaining patient in the attack end, which helped it claim the five-goal victory. Reagan Davie from AYC was named player of the match.

Karana Flames had a strong 65-44 win over Huon. Karana’s Gen Sullivan’s versatility in goals earned her the player of the match award.