Leongatha Netball

LEONGATHA saw off archrival Wonthaggi by 11 goals in a hard-hitting A grade netball battle.

Power battled it out to the end, narrowly winning the final quarter.

While thrilled with the win, Leongatha coach Dean Cashin has great respect for a tenacious rival.

“Wonthaggi’s a tough side, they don’t give up and they play the whole four quarters,” Cashin said.

Cashin was delighted with the Parrots’ ability to get off to a strong start.

“That’s something we’ve been working on and it has been pleasing that we’ve been able to win first quarters, and it’s starting to become a feature of our game.”

Hannah Flanders was the winner’s best player.

“Hannah was on fire today and she’s a dynamic player,” Cashin said of his star goal attack.

As an experienced player, others look up to Flanders for leadership the coach added, noting that was something she showed in liberal measure against the Power.

Skipper Nicola Marriott excelled through the midcourt and setting up opportunities for teammates, and was in commanding form whether playing as wing attack or centre.

“For a centre player, she’s got very good defensive skills,” Cashin said.

Under 17 results

Leongatha 22 def by Wonthaggi 38

Wonthaggi held sway in 17 and Under netball action, overpowering Leongatha to win by 16 goals, with GD Mia Plenkovich leading the way with a best-on-court performance.
Power co-coaches Leanne Brown and Chelsea Bowman were delighted with their side’s ability to apply defensive pressure and capitalise on turnovers.

“Defensive effort across the court was fantastic,” Brown said.

She said the side has been working hard on forcing turnovers and taking advantage of them, something that is now reaping benefits.

On Saturday, Power forced 25 turnovers, scoring off 17, whereas early in the season that statistic tended to be more in the vicinity of 50 percent.
Bowman reflected on Plenkovich’s importance to the team.

“Mia’s an amazing player and she puts everything into every game and into training and works well with our goal keeper Maya (Fraser),” Bowman said.

Jayde Hall and Lily Hume did best for the beaten Parrots.