Mildura get big first up win

SAME court, same conditions but a vastly more satisfying result for the hosts as Mildura clinched their first win of the A Grade season in comfortable fashion against Robinvale Euston at the Brian Weightman Oval courts on Saturday.

The Demons began their 2025 campaign the previous week with a grinding, energy-sapping 46 to 46 stalemate against Red Cliffs.

It was just as hot for round two, but the Dees came out in a different mode and had the game sealed by halftime with a 31 to 13 lead.

“Red Cliffs just came out really well and we were a bit slow at the start but this week we came out harder which is what set us apart from last week,” co-coach and star defender Ava Zadow said after running out the entire game in a 52-33 triumph.

“We got a bit tired towards the end there, but we had the rotations so managed to pull through,” she said.

“All the girls did the basic stuff well today. It was great to have ‘Shaz’ (former coach and defender Sharon Watson) back. We missed her last week, just her senior voice and knowledge and (fellow coach) Jess (McNamara) shot really well.”

McNamara topped all scorers with 26 goals and young goal attack Ashleigh Morello played more than her part – being extremely active in the front third while cleanly netting 20 of her own.

For the Eagles, it was another disappointing road trip, but they get back to their nest this week where they face fellow winless side South Mildura.

“Last week (against Merbein) it was anyone’s game and then it just snuck away from us in the last minute,” coach Georgia Giofrelle said of an opening round 46-44 heartbreaker at Kenny Park.

“We were just keen to get back out there today and fight again but then Mildura came out from the get-go and were just way too strong,” the lively goal attack said.

“I just think we dropped our heads a bit too early, and we weren’t connected enough when bringing the ball down the court.”

However, Giofrelle also noticed some positive signs from her side, which basically matched Mildura after the main break.

“I saw some of our newer players improve their games and young Evie Priest stepped up into wing attack again and she was dominant in getting the ball and driving on,” she said.

Mid-courters/defenders Jorja Delcastegne and Jemma Meehan also impressed in switching roles, but for the coach, there’s no place like home.

“We are looking forward to not having to travel. It was a bit of a drive today – cars everywhere because of Easter. We just can’t wait to get back to our court,” Giofrelle said.