The second half of the season is already upon us and there have certainly been some great matches played to date. I look forward to seeing how the remainder of the season unfolds but if last week’s results are any indication, the big question is – “Who will be able to challenge South Warrnambool” They have certainly been the benchmark team this year.
A Cap of last week’s Results
It is great to see Alice Suhan featuring in Terang Mortlake’s best after starting the season with some injury concerns. However, Koroit were in control of the match from the first pass and were eventual winners 54 to 34.
Portland would have been super excited to get their first win of the season when they defeated Port Fairy 61 to 48. In a high scoring match Jessika Tobin Salzman was a strong contributor for the Seagulls, shooting 31 of her teams’ 48 goals. Tani Rowe had a great game for the Tigers.
Hamilton Kangaroos were too strong for Camperdown winning 69 – 44. Camperdown were once again able to challenge the Kangaroos early but Hamilton found something extra in the final quarter outscoring the pies 24 goals to 10.
North Warrnambool and Warrnambool had to fight hard during their game at Bushfield. With only one goal or less separating the two teams at each break, North Warrnambool were able to get some crucial turnovers in the last quarter and come away with a 6 goal win.
In the top two clash, South Warrnambool never looked in doubt opening up an 8 goal lead by the first break. They continued to extend that lead each quarter and were eventual winners 64 – 38. Annie Blackburn’s work rate and court control has been a strong link for the Roosters this season and earnt her a best on court award last week. Nadine McNamara played a great game for the Bombers.
Association Championships
This weekend the Hampden FNL will be represented at the Association Championships in all age groups. The Finals Day is being played at the State Netball Centre at Parkville.
The players representing our league are:-
13/U: Georgia Arthur, Edie Batt, Madelyn Clarke, McKenzie Dillon, Zoe Dobson, Elsie Finnigan, Charlotte Hinds, Maddox Ryan, Molly Sevior, Charlotte Smedts and Sophie Smith.
15/U: Rosie Bowman, Indiana Cameron, Lara Clarke, Chloe Gleeson, Saskia Gould, Isabella McDowall, Indi O’Connor, Hannah O’Keefe, Shelby O’Sullivan, Indigo Sewell, Elsie Sinnott and Piper Stephens
17/U: Grace Cleaver, Sophie Conheady, Matilda Darcy, Georgia Gilmour, Ava Grundy, Molly McLaren, Scarlett O’Donnell, Eva Ryan, Ella Sevior, Matilda Sewell, Alice Suhan and Jessica Walsh.
Open: Isabella Baker, Meg Carlin, Millie Jennings, Meg Kelson, Remeny McCann, Sarah Moroney, Hollie Phillips, Isabella Rea, Danielle Vankalken and Carly Watson.
We also have 4 umpires who will represent our league on the weekend. They are Leah Kermeen, Lilly Lourey, Olivia Marris and Leo McGrath.
Best of Luck to all teams and Umpires participating on Finals Day. Hope you all have a wonderful day and represent our league proudly.
Umpire Accrediation
Congratulations to Olivia Cope who was last week successfully tested for her C Badge Accreditation. Olivia has been working towards this achievement for the past two years. Olivia can often be seen out and about on Saturday with Warrnambool where she also plays for the 15/U team. Congratulations Olivia, all your hard work has eventually paid off.
Milestone Games
My Predictions for This Week
Cobden make the trip to Victoria Park to take on Koroit. Cobden will be keen to make amends for their big loss last week. I expect Koroit to challenge the bombers and the game will be a lot closer this time round. Teams have struggled against Cobden’s attacking line up and I think this is where the Bombers will be stronger and will get the win.
North Warrnambool take on Hamilton Kangaroos at Pedrina Park. Hamilton came from behind to get the win last time they met. The Eagles have had a few close games and this will be a very important match for them but Hamilton Kangaroos have had a great season to date. North might get over the line just.
Terang Mortlake will take on a much improved Camperdown Magpies but will be too experienced and should get a much needed win if they are to stay in touch with the top 5.
Warrnambool play Portland at the Reid. Warrnambool are another team who are needing to stay in touch with the top 5 and should score a good win over the Tigers.
South Warrnambool will have a comfortable win over Port Fairy.
Good Luck to all teams competing this weekend and Best of Luck to all teams competing at the Association Championships in Melbourne.
