Sport
18 April, 2024
Big test awaits Magpies’ A reserve
A fascinating test awaits Maryborough’s A reserve team on Saturday when Kangaroo Flat makes its way over to town. After an impressive round one victory over Castlemaine on Good Friday, the Magpies have remained on top of the ladder, and will...
A fascinating test awaits Maryborough’s A reserve team on Saturday when Kangaroo Flat makes its way over to town.
After an impressive round one victory over Castlemaine on Good Friday, the Magpies have remained on top of the ladder, and will relish the opportunity to have a crack at the Kangaroos, who finished in third position last season.
The decision to drop down to A reserve has been a major benefit to a number of the Magpies’ younger players, who have played with more distinction and fearless freedom.
Both Millie Cassidy and Tali Chadwick led the way admirably in midcourt against Castlemaine, and they were joined by reigning best-and-fairest winner Amanda Durbridge in what was a commanding performance right from the outset, winning every quarter.
New goalshooter Megan Kelly was also impressive throughout the balance of the day, scoring 32 goals to help lead the way for the Magpies, while experienced campaigner Jordan MacIlwain added a further 24.
Those performances would have thrilled playing-coach Maggie Tranter, who herself combined well with Eliza Roughead to ensure Castlemaine could only breach Maryborough’s goal circle on 38 occasions.
They will now look to take the challenge right up to Kangaroo Flat, who are looking to avoid an 0-2 start after losing by four goals to Sandhurst last week.
In both A grade meetings last season, Maryborough were unable to prevent two excellent performances from the Kangaroos in A grade.
In round three, the Kangaroos stormed home to eventually win by 46 goals, while in the second meeting in round 12, Kangaroo Flat again proved too strong, winning by 51 goals.
Elsewhere on the netball court, Maryborough will be hoping to break through in B grade and B reserve, having had two competitive performances against Castlemaine to open their season, while the 17 and under team will be hoping to make it two wins in succession after a stirring round one victory, where they came from behind to win by eight goals.