Sport
14 August, 2026
2026 MCDFNL Round 18 Netball Preview — Talbot vs Lexton
While most of the A grade finals bracket is set, Saturday’s blockbuster between Talbot and Lexton could produce a late curveball before the enthralling premiership battle.
These two talented teams produced an instant classic when they last met back in round five, culminating in a scintillating final quarter after the Hawks and Tigers were deadlocked at 38 apiece at three-quarter time.
Spectacular interceptions from Shanae Hepworth and Sarah Griffin gave Lexton a narrow lead they held onto, maintaining their unbeaten start to 2026 with a thrilling two-goal victory.
Besides avenging that heartbreaking defeat, the Hawks have an extra incentive to strive for this Saturday, as victory would see them jump Lexton in the standings and play Trentham in the elimination final.
With the Tigers determined to preserve their fifth seed, this weekend’s encounter looks set to come down to the wire, with the battle of the goal circles potentially instrumental.
Lexton’s teenage sensation Charlize Kennedy had some struggles breaking free from Talbot’s experienced defensive trio of Jane Dikini, Maddy Williams and Melissa Scott back in round five and will be keen to fight back against that unit alongside Rachel Phelan, who was key to the Tigers besting the Hawks in their last outing.
Fellow rising star Charli Kaye will also look to remain a pivotal fixture to Talbot’s attack, ensuring Lexton’s Hepworth and Eliza Bell cannot isolate sharpshooter Elenoa Costello with pinpoint entry passes and a deft shooting touch.