NANGILOC copped a rude awakening to their A Grade title defence with a shock loss to last year’s bottom side Gol Gol out at Lake Cullulleraine two weeks ago.
The Demons will be hoping the Easter break and some deep soul searching will get their season back on keel swiftly, but they face a significantly tougher test today when they meet last year’s minor premiers Bambill at the Mildura Senior College courts.
The Dees lost the bulk of their top side after winning last year’s pennant and the Hawks may be substantially improved but that can’t fully explain the five-goal defeat.
The coach and one of the few returnees from last season, Ginine Sluiter, newcomer Amber King and Shayna Saunders played well for Nangiloc, but they are going to need a lot more coming up against a team with high expectations for this MFNL season.
The Saints comfortably accounted for Cardross, 57-34, and will be out to get an early two-game break over the Demons. Goal keeper Kaylie Monaghan was in top form for Bambill, as were Maddy Tormey and Tessa Houkamau.
After going winless last year, Gol Gol will be chasing win number two of the fledgling season when they head back to the Lake to battle it out with Meringur.
Like the footballing Hawks, the netball side also made significant roster moves during the summer and early indications suggest they may have paid off for new coach Brooke Oosting.
Goal attack Ally Stanbrough led the way for Gol Gol in an even team performance.
Meringur battled hard in a 41-30 loss to last year’s runners-up Werrimull with new recruits Christina Villiva and shooter Jessica Tiller having an immediate impact on the squad.
The Magpies head to Cardross seeking to make it two wins on the trot and, on round one form, should be able to complete the task.
Erin Sell, Anna Thomson and Grace Kelly were Werrimull’s opening day standouts and the visitors should have a little too much class all over the court to deny the Lions a home win.
PREDICTION: Saints by four goals, Hawks by seven, Magpies by 11.
TODAYS MFNL GAMES
Men’s football
Bambill v Nangiloc: Mildura Senior College, 2.30pm
Meringur v Gol Gol: Lake Cullulleraine, 2.30pm
Cardross v Werrimull: Cardross Oval, 2.30pm
Women’s football
Cardross v Werrimull: Cardross Oval, 12.30pm
Meringur v Gol Gol: Lake Cullulleraine, 12.30pm
Netball
Bambill v Nangiloc: Mildura Senior College, 12pm
Meringur v Gol Gol: Lake Cullulleraine, 12pm
Cardross v Werrimull: Cardross Oval courts, 12pm
