In a dramatic start to the East Gippsland netball season, last year’s grand finalists, Stratford and Boisdale Briagolong, could not be separated, finishing their opening clash with a 48-48 draw.
Despite the Bombers losing several key players to Maffra during the off-season, any speculation that they would slide down the ladder was silenced by their round one performance, proving they will remain a major factor in 2026.
The reigning premier, Stratford, was well served by Sierra Cook, Maggie Tatterson, and Maddi Telling, while the Bombers were led by established stars Natalie Allman and Ash McDonough.
In contrast to the thriller at Stratford, the remaining three matches were one-sided affairs. Last year’s finalist, Wy Yung, made short work of Lakes Entrance at Bullumwaal Road, recording an emphatic 53-20 victory.
Sophie Bills starred in her first match for the Tigers after crossing from Bairnsdale in the off-season. For the Seagulls, Poppy Carroll, Tessa York, and youngster Makayla Grabham battled hard against the relentless Tigers’ pressure.
Lucknow, last year’s minor premier, also looks set for another strong campaign under coach Erica Lynch. The Magpies defeated Orbost Snowy Rovers at Lochiel Park by 32 goals, finishing 63-31.
Lindenow made the trip across town to Paynesville and returned home 58-goal victors, easily accounting for a developing Gulls outfit, 78-20. Brooke Perrett and Justine White were standouts for the Cats, while Amy Geisler, Lucy Weston, and Paige Strickland were the best for Paynesville.
This week’s round of matches promises more balance, with significant interest in Boisdale Briagolong hosting Wy Yung, and Lakes Entrance welcoming Orbost Snowy Rovers to Lakeside Oval.
In other matches, Lindenow will host Stratford, while Lucknow and Paynesville will take a week’s rest before facing off in a standalone Anzac Day fixture seven days later at the Lucknow Recreation Reserve.
