MERBEIN have entrenched themselves in fourth place on the ladder following their SFNL A Grade netball victory over Imperials.
In a game full of ebbs and flows, and multiple lead changes during the third quarter, the Magpies got on a run late at the end of the term that proved the difference in the 49-41 result.
While creating plenty of turnovers, the Magpies also handed the ball back on multiple occasions but when the ball was fed in quickly, Darcey Chilton provided a strong target, finishing with 28 goals.
Sophie Kroehn and Johannah Gray were strong in defence contending with a pair of accurate shooters in Imps coach Alison Walker and Kia Scott, and Stephanie White ran herself into the ground at wing attack to provide passing options.
Merbein coach Breigh Hammet said there was still plenty to work on for her side, but they would take the four points.
“I thought it took us a while to settle but, once we did, the third (quarter) onwards was really good,” she said.
“We needed to open our circle up and getting our goalers moving out of the ring helped.
“Sophie and Joh were solid again today and their game always lifts when they keep positive and don’t allow themselves to get frustrated.
“Darcey continues to get stronger every game and I have no doubt she has been a huge contribution to the wins. We have always been a strong defensive team, converting the goals has improved this season.
“We still have to work on not forcing the long balls and locking down the flow of our opposition’s ball movement down court.”
The Magpies have the bye this week.
Scott and Laura Hayter were named the best players for Imperials, who go on to face Ouyen United at Blackburn Park this weekend.\
