WHILE the rain forced Mildura to rein in their usual free-flowing style of netball, their versatility came to the fore as they secured a third straight A Grade victory.
Brian Weightman Oval co-tenants Imperials pushed their neighbourly rivals through the wet conditions, but the Demons were able to keep them at bay to win 47-34.
The return to the A Grade side of former playing coach Abbey Madden gives Mildura extra attacking weapons, utilising four different shooters throughout the win.
Regular target Jess McNamara spent the second half in defence and impressed in her new role, while Ava Zadow’s strong form since being switched into attack continued with a stellar performance.
Captain Ally Leng said it was a tough day at the office in the conditions.
“It was quite a different game being so cold and wet out there,” she said.
“It was still really competitive and Imps pushed us really hard, but it was great to be able to get the win on the board.
“We wanted to make sure we kept that consistency across all four quarters, and just making sure our passing was short and efficient so we could keep possession.
“I like my long bomb passes so I had to rein it in a bit more on a day like that.”
Leng’s midcourt connection with Molly McDonald and Hannah Zambelli was also impressive in the trying conditions.
Imperials playing coach Ali Walker did everything she could to bring her side back into the game, her outstanding shooting bringing the margin to four goals in the third term and she provided strong on-court instruction.
Ella Hards and Tracey Sherlock also did their level best to will the side back into the contest when the Demons threatened to break away.
Leng believes Madden’s return will benefit the side in the back half of the season.
“I think Abbey was back in B Grade last week but it was really exciting to have her back this week,” she said.
“When I first started in A Grade she was coaching and playing so it was a bit nostalgic, and having her swing into shooter meant we had four different shooters during the game which shows the versatility we have in our side.
“Depending on the game it’s great to have those options that we can swing if match-ups aren’t working or make changes as the game is going on to suit our game.”
