ROBE 45 d PORT MACDONNELL 27
PORT MacDonnell hosted its fellow seasiders for the Demons’ second home game of the season.
However, it did not go as planned with Robe proving too strong on the day.
The Roosters won the toss and were awarded the first centre pass.
Despite an early turnover from the “Bay’s” star defender Alana Berkefeld, the first goal went to the guests.
Robe captain Georgia Perkins set the defensive pressure early creating many turnovers, which resulted in a convincing early lead.
The pressure was on Port MacDonnell goalies Megan Hein and Kori Collins as the Roosters limited opportunities to score.
In a speedy game of netball, Demons Liza Mutch and Shannon Scheidl had good cover through the middle, but Robe’s Annie Regnier and Lucy Perkins worked exceptionally well together, with their experience and agility challenging the Demon’s mid court.
The Carter sisters Demi and Halle held well in Robe’s goal circle and shot with accuracy, which gave the Roosters a promising 16-5 goal lead heading into quarter time.
The second quarter saw Robe’s mid court continue to apply pressure, ensuring Georgia Perkins and Emma Grant treasured every turnover.
Down the defensive end Port MacDonnell’s Alysha Coon and Berkefeld worked overtime but Robe managed to build on its lead to be up by 13 at the half.
The hosts shuffled its their midcourt at the main break to try and limit the flow, but Regnier, Lucy Perkins and Ellen Ramke were assertive through the middle.
They caused strife for Scheidl, Mutch and Kate Faint.
Although Collins and Hein moved well in the circle, their shooting accuracy was down, which provided Georgia Perkins and Grant rebounding opportunities.
The Carter sisters continued working hard in Robe’s goal circle, but it was not easy work with Coon and Berkefeld making them earn every goal.
Robe’s court transition was excellent, and they worked well as a team to be up 34-17 at the last change.
Hein came out of goals and into wing defence in the fourth, with the Demons bringing the fresh legs of Under 17 Lara Wilson into goal shooter.
Hein provided pressure down the mid court, but it was not enough for the speedy Roosters attack.
Wilson added some much-needed accuracy for the Bay, but it was not enought to close the gap.
Ultimately, Robe’s athleticism and experience proved to be superior and at the final whistle the guests claimed a 45-27 goal win.
Best for the Roosters were Georgia Perkins and Ramke, while Berkefeld and Coon stood out for the home team.
