Image supplied by the Standard
Last week’s results probably left a few people wondering, who will still be in the run for the best Open team come September. The Competition is still very close and quite a few teams are starting to settle into their lineup and show us what they are capable of.
In a recap of last week’s games, Portland were able to score their 2nd win of the season, overcoming a determined Terang/Mortlake by 8 goals. Cobden were never in doubt, opening up a 19 goal advantage by half time against Hamilton. Hamilton challenged Cobden in the 2nd half but Cobden were eventual winners by 20. South Warrnambool were big winners over Port Fairy, winning by 30. North Warrnambool showcased what they are capable of with an upset win over Koroit by 13 goals and Camperdown come from behind to snatch a draw with Warrnambool – 45 goals a piece.
My Predictions for this weekend’s matches
South Warrnambool make the journey to Melville Oval to take on the Hamilton Kangaroos. The Kangaroos will struggle to match the young talented Roosters and combat the Blackburn/Marris combination in the goal circle. South will notch up their 5th win of the season.
Cobden take on the Portland Tigers at Hanlon Park where the new netball facilities will be used for the first time. Congratulations to the Portland FNCC for these terrific upgrades. The Bombers hold number one position on the ladder for good reason and will be too strong for Portland.
North Warrnambool are starting to show signs of their full potential and with Port Fairy having a few injury concerns, the Eagles will win comfortably.
Camperdown take on Koroit at Victoria Park and Koroit will be keen to make amends for their loss last week. I think this will be a close contest and if Camperdown’s defenders are able to find an answer for Nell Mitchell’s dominance in the circle, they could claim another victory here.
Umpire Appreciation Round
Next week is our “Umpire Appreciation Round” for season 2021. As well as holding a Rules Discussion at the Warrnambool Netball Stadium on Friday night, there will be Umpire Mentors at all games on Saturday. This is a significant event on our netball calendar and I encourage everyone to take the time to acknowledge the great work that our Umpires do on a weekly basis.
Whilst we are talking about our Umpires, I would like to congratulate Maggie Conheady of Camperdown and Mayley Cross of South Warrnambool who umpired their first Open Grade game last week. Well done and keep up the good work girls.
Author: Josie Logan