Picture: J.L. (“FRED”) SMITH
HATHERLEIGH has earned itself another chance at reigning premiers Kalangadoo in the 2017 Mid South East Netball Association grand final after a preliminary victory over Port MacDonnell.
The opening stanza lived up to expectations between the Eagles and the Demons.
It was a closely contested quarter with Hatherleigh just three goals ahead at the first break.
Port MacDonnell goal shooter Kahli Rolton went down early in the first term with a calf injury, but despite the inclusion of Tayla Irving, the Demons kept with their highly fancied opponents.
After an injury to Abby Wight last week, Emma Laucirica settled well into the side.
Hatherleigh’s goalies made the most of their opportunities through unforced errors in Port MacDonnell’s mid court.
By the main break the difference was 12.
The Eagles’ full court pressure was a highlight.
Kelsey Wight was attacking the ball hard and delivering well into her goalies.
The Demons made changes with Narelle Lewis entering at wing attack, allowing Toni Gilmore to return to the goal circle.
Port MacDonnell settled well with the changes and Gilmore shot well.
Sarah Faulkner and Alyssa Boylan had a solid tussle through the middle.
Both sides applied full court pressure to cause more turnovers, but the Eagles still held the upper-hand.
In the end Hatherleigh was able to slightly extend on its lead to run out victors by 14 goals.
Final score: Hatherleigh 51 d Port MacDonnell 37
