IT’S time for the SFNL A Grade netball mid-season report card. SARAH BUCHECKER rates team performances so far and looks at how things are shaping for the business end of the season.
The Favourite
Wentworth: The Roos have once again proven themselves as the team to beat this year, remaining undefeated at the halfway point of the season.
They have a 36-game winning streak and are the hot favourites for the premiership this year. The team, led by star playing coach Amanda Edwards, have a percentage of 260.19.
Their closest winning margin was against Mildura, who they defeated by 14 goals.
Their biggest win was against Red Cliffs by 69 goals.
Defensive duo Courtney Wakefield and Natalie Vercher have been standouts for the Roos, who have a whole-court defensive pressure that is unmatched by rivals.
The Contenders
Mildura: Mildura have come out strong this season, with only one loss against Wentworth last round.
The Demons have developed a fast playing style, similar to the Roos, utilising their youth throughout the court.
Ava Zadow, Ellie Vincent and Jess McNamara have been in impressive form for the team. If Mildura power through the second half of the season the same as they have the first, they are a sure shot for finals.
South Mildura: The third-placed Bulldogs powered into this year, ready to prove themselves as finals contenders again.
The side has only lost to Wentworth and Mildura, and drawn with Ouyen United. They show a lot of potential to give the top two teams a run for their money, especially with the likes of Morna Naquto, Sharne Lane and Tayla Sellens showing their class.
Irymple: The Swallows came into the season with a youthful side. But it has not stopped them, as they have had some impressive wins and are currently sitting in fourth on the ladder.
Shakara Delcastagne has been a key player for the Swallows, along with Indi Spratt, Sophie Price and Mackenzie Ryan. Irymple are only just ahead of Merbein thanks to a slightly higher percentage. But based on winning and losing margins, their defeat of Imperials and their game against Wentworth, I lean further towards Irymple making the final four.
The Outsiders
Merbein: The Pies have come a long way since last season, stepping onto the court with a tenacious spirit.
They have been led by several impressive players including the Grays – Sophie, Johannah and Emily – Sophie Kroehn and Stephanie White.
Merbein are within grasp of the top four and have the opportunity to overtake the Swallows if they can continue their improvement under Breigh Hammett.
They have managed to defeat most teams below them, with the exception of Imperials, and beat Irymple last week.
Ouyen United: The Kangas have hit their stride after a slow start to the new season. With a lot of player inconsistency, Ouyen United have only managed to settle in recent weeks.
But, as a result, they were able to string wins against Robinvale Euston, Red Cliffs, Imperials and drew with South Mildura, pushing them from the bottom of the ladder to sixth place.
The Kangas face some more challenges as they head into the second half of the season, but if they can continue their strong run, they may shake up some of the top teams before finals.
Ellen Morrish, Catherine Brown and Tsharni Burns have been the team’s best players.
Imperials: Imps have been so close but so far away several times this season. They have drive and fight on the court but just haven’t been able to get over the line to win against some of the higher-placed teams.
Mildura Heat basketballer Tracey Sherlock has made some impressive cameos for Imps at goal attack. Meg McManus and Laura Hayter have performed consistently well.
Robinvale Euston: The youthful Eagles have developed well this year. No longer the easy-beats, Robinvale Euston have ignited a new fire on the court putting other teams to the test.
They may only have one win, but last year’s wooden spooners have been competitive this year. Georgia Giofrelle and Taneh Romeo have been standouts for the team.
Red Cliffs: The Tigers are another side that consistently brings fire to the court. Despite not winning a game yet this season (after drawing with Imps in round 1), the Tigers have been fierce with their defensive pressure and, like the Eagles, have the potential to bag some wins down the home stretch. Lola O’Connor, Jazmin Parker and Jacqulyn Bell have been impressive for the Tigers.
