Netballers are back on court

Round one of Wimmera Netball Association will bring action back to the courts as squads begin their mission for a 2019 premiership.

Minyip-murtoa will host two-time defending premier Horsham Saints in a rematch of last year’s nail-biting grand final.

Saints A Grade coach Shannon Cross has refused to acknowledge the club as a 2019 frontrunner, though other teams will be keeping an eye on the side that claimed an A Grade pennant by one goal.

The clash against Minyip-murtoa should be an exciting one, with the Burras desperate to return to premiership contention after falling short in 2018.

The Burras lose experienced goal keeper Paula Wiedermann, but the squad’s attack is strong and coach Billie Bibby is confident her team can run into premiership territory again.

With a season of Wimmera experience under Southern Mallee Giants’ belts, 2019 could see the outfit leaving a bigger mark on competition.

The Giants face Stawell, which won just two matches last year. But new A Grade co-coach Tracey Dark said while the outfit might not be a likely pick for some, she expected the Warriors to be more competitive this season.

Warrack Eagles and Ararat will also meet at the weekend.

The Eagles bowed out of the finals in straight sets last year, but there is no doubt the team’s 14-2 win-loss ratio makes it one to watch again.

The Rats bring a versatile side to the competition and will welcome returning sharp-shooter Megan Shea for a few matches.

Rats A Grade coach Taylor Mason said players will come into 2019 raring to make finals, and a consistent approach by the team might take them there.

Nhill and Dimboola will square off in the final encounter of round one, while Horsham Demons have bye.