Quality netball as top teams meet
The top two teams lined up in A grade with Drouin remaining second on the ladder after a three-goal loss. A grade: Drouin 51 lost to Traralgon 54. Drouin against Traralgon is the benchmark of quality netball in Gippsland – always fast and rough with emotions running high. Drouin had the lead for the first half, but Traralgon’s fantastic third quarter set up their win. Drouin had chances, and by no means was the game over before the final whistle.
Ruby Pratt in wing attack played a great game, receiving countless centre passes. It was brilliant to watch gun centres match up in Christie Edwards and Stacey O’Brien. They’ve played each other a lot and use their heads as much as speed and skill.
In defence, Kym Diston did well on tall opposition, picking off balls before they reached the circle.
In attack, Stacie Gardiner and Karina Proctor played usual tight games, with Stacie slotting back to goal shooter to try to score quickly in the last quarter. The plan worked but the team was unlucky in a tight game.
The club wishes April Bethune a speedy recovery after a knee injury in the under 17 game. Award: Ruby Pratt. B grade: Drouin 39 lost to Traralgon 69. Drouin had a good start but silly mistakes cost the game. It wasn’t all bad with great play from defender Chelsea DeRiter who got hands onto many rebounds as well as intercepts. Also in defence, Rachel Morris was fantastic, dominating both the mid-court and defensive end with pressure and intercepts.
The team welcomed back Jodie Buckingham from injury, and her presence was noted in attack with strong drives and passes. It was a game to learn from. Awards: Chelsea DeRiter and Rachel Morris. C grade: Drouin 33 defeated Traralgon 31. It takes a huge team effort to beat any Traralgon team – and C grade delivered for the second time this season.
The team was Abbey Tyrell, Emily Bethune, Sam East, Chloe Blum, Kate Butler, Jess Murray, Tasha Kimber, Sarah Sharpe, Abby Craig and Lia Olsen. No matter what combination was on court, the team worked the ball around until the goalers were in the best position to score.
Emily in goal attack shot beautifully; barely missing a shot. Kate drove the ball quickly onto the ring.
In defence, Lia and Abby combined well, consistent pressure wearing down the opposition. They also faced some fiery play under the ring. Awards: Emily Bethune and Kate Butler. Under 17: Drouin 34 defeated Traralgon 29. After a great win, Drouin now sit second on the ladder. The word of the day was “brutal” and the girls lived up to that challenge.
The defensive pressure was impressive. Macarra Parkinson and Alana Rippon worked well with their defence in the mid-court, communicating and not allowing any easy balls into the circle.
The attack end lost April Bethune early to injury. However, they adjusted quickly and lifted to another level.
The team was calm, positive and played smart netball.
Awards: Macarra Parkinson and Alana Rippon. Under 15: Drouin 31 lost to Traralgon 35. In an outstanding performance, the Hawks showcased versatility with different combination on court working as a unit. In defence and attack, they took intercepts and drove the ball down the court before rewarding themselves on the scoreboard.
The competitive game came down to the wire. Macy Newcombe was ruthless in defence with flying intercepts. Ella Gown read the ball well to also take fantastic intercepts.
The work rate and consistency displayed how far this team has come and improved. Awards: Ella Gown and Macy Newcombe. Under 13: Drouin 4 lost to Traralgon 40. The baby Hawks faced tough opposition in tough conditions – the thermostat reading minus one when the match started.
Good defensive work in the ring by Tess Mapleson and Lucy McKellar kept the Traralgon goalers on their toes. In attack, Maya Cooper, Matilda Carroll and Emily Bertuola moved the ball easily.
Awards: Matilda Carroll and Lucy McKellar.