A GRADE: MUNDULLA 53 D PENOLA 36
IT was a tough first hit out for Penola’s A Grade netballers facing a new-look Mundulla side Round 1 one Kowree Naracoorte Tatiara netball on Saturday.
Penola came out eager and started with some tight defence and great passages of play, but Mundulla soon tightened up their defence and forced contested balls all over the court.
Their attacking speed put Penola under pressure, but the Eagles’ defensive pressure through the mid-court allowed for some important turnovers from Hannah Klemm and Riley Buckingham.
With both ends having to work hard to score, Mundulla held the lead going into the second half.
Penola continued to work hard, producing some smooth transitions as Gorgia Robbie and Tegan Lythgo found some more space in the circle, but Mundulla’s defensive work in the goal circle had them picking off passes and turning plenty of ball.
Mundulla’s speed down court and accurate passing saw them run away with the lead in the last quarter for a comfortable win.
Best players for Penola were Klemm and Siobhan Adams, with Eliza Grenvold and Alex Lovering best for Mundulla.
A RESERVE: PENOLA 52 D MUNDULLA 46
Penola got off to a slow start in the A Reserve, which allowed Mundulla to build a six-goal lead early.
However, a strong last five minutes of the opening term brought the score back to even by the first break.
The Eagles continued their trend of starting each quarter slowly and finishing strongly, with scores still tied at three quarter time.
As fatigue crept in during the last quarter, Penola stepped up the defensive pressure and worked tirelessly in attack to build a six-goal lead by the final whistle.
Heidi Berkin and Jade Lthygo were named best for Penola, with Chantelle Fromm and Stacey Excell best for Mundulla.
