SOUTH Mildura netball star Morna Naquto has shown an incredible attitude and maturity in the face of a season-ending knee injury, according to coach Sally Moore.
The 18-year-old suffered a torn ACL during last week’s loss to Merbein.
Gypsy Gange looks set to combine with Sharne Lane in defence for the remainder of the SFNL A Grade campaign, starting with Saturday’s second versus third match-up with Mildura at Brian Weightman Oval.
Despite the situation, Moore said the way Naquto had handled herself was second to none.
“It’s obviously hard for Morna but she’s been marvellous with her attitude about it,” she said.
“She could have just stayed home feeling sorry for herself but she’s been showing up to training and helping out where she can which I think shows a really impressive level of maturity for an 18-year-old.
“I’m really proud of how she’s handled it so far.”
Following last week’s loss to the Magpies, South face an important two weeks with Mildura and Ouyen United before their bye, then finishing their run to the final against Robinvale-Euston and Red Cliffs.
Moore said her side will have to “grit it out” against the Demons and their fast-moving attack.
“We’re just hoping for that contest like we had last time,” she said.
“Our last match-up with Mildura was such a wonderfully skilled game that I found myself just watching at times rather than coaching.
“We know they’re a side who can move the ball very quickly and we’ve been developing different styles of defence to combat other styles of attack. This will be a real test for us to see if we can put those things we’ve practised into action.”
Moore said defensive general Lane would be the ideal partner for Gange as she looks to settle into the A Grade line-up.
“Gypsy will be promoted from B Grade so we’re excited to see that happen,” she said.
“Gypsy plays partnership defence, and Sharne is a great player to have there with her voice and direction and she can build really good partnerships.
“We’re very lucky to have her in goal keeper because she has vision of the entire court and provides real leadership there.”
In other A Grade games, Irymple will look to return to the top four as they take on Red Cliffs at Henshilwood Oval, Merbein look to keep their momentum rolling against Robinvale Euston at Kenny Park, while ladder leaders Wentworth host Imperials at George Gordon Oval.
Ouyen United have the bye.
