ANOTHER contender marks another scalp for Wentworth as the A Grade netball powerhouse continue their remarkable winning streak.
Despite the gap in the scoreline, Irymple impressed in their top-of-the-table clash with the Roos, but the reigning champions made every post a winner in their 53-30 win at George Gordon Oval to mark 54 matches undefeated.
The Swallows lacked the height of their opponents and utilised a patient possession-based build-up with short and sharp passing.
Often it worked, but when Wenty could organise themselves behind the ball they allowed few passing options and capitalised on the turnovers.
While they were more patient in their build-up play against Mildura two weeks ago, returning from the bye they were back to the fast-paced flicks and breakneck speed moving into attack.
Coach Amanda Edwards, who was in sublime shooting form, praised her side’s ability to apply a full-court defensive press.
“We’ve really been trying to work on our conversion rate, especially on turnovers, and using speed of ball movement to get into attack and I think we worked that really well,” she said.
“Our key focus was definitely our full-court defensive press. We know Irymple hold possession quite well and don’t give it up easily so I thought that aspect of our game was really strong.
“I thought the work rate of Christie Becker was outstanding. With her height she was in the right place at the right time to affect some of these passes towards Vanessa (Power) and Shelby (Trigg), which gave the opportunities for players like Courtney (Wakefield) and Nat (Vercher) to take advantage of.”
Alongside Edwards, Emily Hosking was named among the Roos’ best, filling in at WA for the absent Molly Mangan.
“Em is a tough opponent and is an absolute workhorse, and I thought the match-up between her and Sophie Price was probably the best one of the day,” her coach said.
“A key focus for us is having that versatility and being able to fill multiple roles.”
Irymple gun Shakara Delcastegne ran herself into the ground at centre and provided some quality interceptions, while emerging star Price started many a foray forward from her wing defence position.
Young defender Keita McKee also impressed when the opportunity arose for her on court.
Wentworth 53 d Irymple 30
BEST: Wentworth: Amanda Edwards, Emily Hosking. Irymple: Shakara Delcastegne, Sophie Price
