Sport
8 May, 2026
2026 MCDFNL Netball Round 5 Preview — Maldon vs Carisbrook
The Maldon Bombers will attempt to bring all their aerial firepower this weekend to avoid the venomous bite of the Carisbrook Redbacks.
The Redbacks were unrelenting in their 54-goal victory over the Maryborough Giants last weekend, with Katie Bilton the reliable engine in the midcourt and another strong shooting performance from Abbey Nalder and Jordan McClure.
In Finley Wagstaff’s absence, Elise Mottram, Chloe Egan and Charlotte Cain maintained Carisbrook’s suffocating defence, allowing just seven goals in the first half.
Despite boasting a strong 3-1 record, the Redbacks currently sit seventh on the A grade ladder on percentage, something they would like to boost this weekend at Bill Woodfull Reserve.
Standing in their way is the rebuilding Bombers, who are coming off a difficult 68-goal defeat to Navarre in round four.
Unlike in their previous meetings against contenders like Lexton and Avoca this season, Maldon struggled to conjure sustained competitive patches versus the Grasshoppers, an encouraging trait they’ll be keen to rediscover and showcase against Carisbrook.
To do that, Maldon’s midcourt consisting of co-captain Claire Kelly, Charlotte Harrison and Rory Baker will be crucial in stopping Bilton and Cain from getting on a roll.
The trio will also have to emphasise ball security against a defensive unit that ranked second in points allowed last season, ensuring shooters like Sophie Zammit, Alannah Furmston and Laney McNeill have consistent opportunities to hit the scoreboard.