Downlands takes fifth crown
NETBALL: Downlands College has continued its recent dominance of the Merici Chevalier Cup, claiming its fifth-straight victory over St Ursula’s College.
This year’s edition was like no other, with the annual clash missing a key component of what makes it so special, a boisterous crowd.
With spectator numbers restricted to just two per player, the limited number of fans made their voices heard, and with the use of technology, Downlands coach Wendy McPherson said they were able to get the most out of it.
“It was definitely a different feel,” she said.
“The atmosphere in the crowd is a huge part of the event, although there was a few people there that did their best to make it a big event.
“We were lucky to be able to livestream, which had quite a lot of views.”
A tight first term saw Downlands edge clear 12-8 at the first change, before a second quarter surge helped push their lead out to 14 at the main break.
St Ursula’s fought back in the third to trail by nine with one quarter to play, before Downlands was able to close out the contest, prevailing 39-26.
McPherson credited the school’s depth to get them over the line, as well as finding their groove in the second term.
“We’re in a position this year where we’re able to give 10 girls decent court time, which is great in the sense of being able to make chances and move positions without losing anything on the court.
“We’ve got a pretty welldrilled team this year with lots of netball experience behind us.
“It didn’t matter who was on court, they did a great job.
“It was a tough start, but we were able to run away and get a few goals ahead in the second quarter.
“Brooke Fitzgerald had a great time. She was our goal attack and does a lot of work bringing the ball down, and she shot particularly well too.”
Their attention now shifts to the statewide Vicki Wilson Cup, which will be held in Brisbane next month.
RESULTS – FIRST VII: Downlands 39-26, SECOND BLUE: St Ursula’s 18-17, JUNIOR FIRST VII: Downlands 34-9, SECOND RED: Downlands 33-5, YEAR 8: St Ursula’s 25-9, YEAR 7: Downlands 24-6