Game 1
South Australia (8) defeated by Victoria (25)
The Victorians got their Marie Little Shield campaign off to the best of starts, defeating South Australia by 17 goals.
It was a tough battle in the first quarter, with neither team giving an inch. But the Vics weren’t going to be kept down for long, breaking away with a 12-goal second quarter to put them in a dominant position.
Jessica McCulloch was a standout in defence, snagging a few intercepts and applying constant pressure to force the South Australians into risky passes. Emma Daffy showed her prowess in goal attack with her incredible accuracy and ability to support her goal shooter in the ring.
Game 2
Victoria (34) defeated Western Australia (3)
It was another impressive performance for the team in navy as they took on Western Australia, going on to claim a 31-goal victory.
New addition Darcie Delahunty was a revelation in centre, her speed through the court and pinpoint passing making her invaluable at circle edge. Aided by captain Rachael Potter in wing attack, the pair were unstoppable in the midcourt.
The Vics continued to stand strong in defence, with Ashlea Rollason and Sky-Ann Grace both claiming intercepts throughout the match.
THE COACH SAYS
Head coach Naomi Linossier was proud of her side’s effort on the first day of the competition.
“We’re feeling really good, and very impressed with the level of netball the team is playing,” she said.
“We spoke about making sure that we stick to our game plan and do what we know is our brand of netball, and we’re really happy with how the team’s performed today.”
UP NEXT
Victoria return to Waverley Netball Centre tomorrow for three match ups against Queensland, Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory.
Watch every match live and free on Netball Australia TV
View the full fixture, results and ladder
