Lakes Entrance enjoyed one of its strongest days of the East Gippsland Netball season in round six, winning six of seven matches against Paynesville at AJ Freeman Reserve last Saturday.
The Seagulls’ “A” grade side was keen to continue the momentum after five earlier wins by the club and did just that, overcoming the Gulls 44-27 in a hard-fought contest.
Poppy Carroll, Jess Gillard and Tommi Carroll were outstanding performers, while youngster Bonnie Rotheram impressed on debut.
The “B” grade match followed a similar pattern, with the Seagulls proving too steady late in quarters and making better use of crucial turnovers.
Matilda Richardson and Hannah Kleeven made the most of every possession and were deservedly named among the best players.
There were plenty of smiles after the “C” grade clash, with Lakes Entrance breaking through for its first win of the season in convincing fashion, 29-8.
Mel Clifford and Verity Jakins were standouts in the confidence-boosting victory, which the Seagulls will hope can be the catalyst for more success in the weeks ahead.
The celebrations continued in “D” grade, where Lakes Entrance also recorded a breakthrough victory, defeating Paynesville 25-10.
The lower-grade sides have continued to work hard throughout the season, and the coaching panel was delighted to see those efforts rewarded.
The win was built on determined defence and creative attacking play, with Haylee McKinnon and Poppy Richardson leading the way in impressive performances.
The only defeat of the day came in the under-17s, where Paynesville proved too strong, defeating the reigning premiers 56-31.
Tayah Alsop and Emily O’Donnell battled hard for the Seagulls against a Paynesville side that looks likely to feature prominently at the pointy end of the season.
The under-15s also celebrated a season first, producing their best four-quarter performance of the year to claim a commanding 31-12 victory.
Mia Hamer and Peyton Armistead were influential in a strong team effort that had the entire club celebrating.
Lakes Entrance maintained its place in the top four of the under-13 competition with a 24-12 win.
Maddie Woodward and Billie Haylar again led the way for the club’s most successful side so far this season.
Lakes Entrance will host Stratford at Lakeside Oval this week.
