Moe and Bairnsdale split their six matches in round one of Gippsland League netball at the Bairnsdale City Oval last Saturday with the Redlegs again looking set for an impressive season at junior level.
The Lions made a huge statement in the “A” grade match with a 27-8 opening term, making the most of every opportunity.
Bairnsdale’s mid-court worked hard to deliver the ball to the goalers while the defensive end was constantly being put under pressure as the Redlegs fought hard but were no match for Moe, who were winners by an incredible 48 goals.
Anna Mooney (29 goals) and Jordy O’Connor were named in the best for the Redlegs.
It was a similar scenario in “B” grade with the Lions serving up a 20-1 first stanza, Bairnsdale unable to control the ball as Moe pounced on every chance.
The remaining three quarters saw the Redlegs regroup and start to play some good netball which was a positive after a slow start, eventually going down by 33 goals.
Youngsters Ruby Fullgrabe and Indi Allen were named in the best for the home side.
It was a better result in “C” grade. After an even first half the Redlegs asserted their authority in the second half to score a dogged 10-goal victory.
Nerves and wind both played havoc early for both teams in a physical game, but it was the work of the Redlegs defenders who combined well and mid court rotations which allowed the team to steady and take control in the second half.
Shooters Renee Scicluna (18) and Annora Virgo (21) remained calm and converted more consistently than their Lions counterparts.
After an even start in the under 17s, Bairnsdale dominated the final three quarters, running out impressive 61-23 winners.
The win came off the back of outstanding pressure all over the court with Mia Ballinger (23), Ava Langley (23) and Eve Sabell (15) capitalising on the good work in the circle.
Kiara Irish and Liv Pearson teamed up well and were strong in the defensive circle in a solid first-up effort by all players, with Sabell and Irish named best.
There was disappointment in the under 15s with the Redlegs leading for most of the match with strong court play and great work, only to be overrun late off the back of some costly turnovers.
A 9-5 final term for the Lions got the visitors home in a close contest by one goal.
Lilly Fullgrabe (15) and Chloe Allen were named in the best, while Roxie Jackson also impressed shooting 17 goals.
The newest batch of baby Redlegs came out firing in the under 13s, excited to begin their 2025 campaign.
Both teams took their time to settle, finding it hard to score in a low scoring first half, Bairnsdale holding a four-goal lead at half time.
Tana Bazeley’s defensive pressure was a standout and Bella Brodribb’s eight-goal last quarter saw the Redlegs run away to a comfortable 16-goal win.
This week the Redlegs hit the road for round two taking on the Drouin Hawks at the Morwell Recreation Reserve.
