Sport
2 April, 2026
Maldon set to host Dunolly
The new MCDFNL netball season swishes into action this Good Friday with an intriguing clash between two teams keen to prove themselves in 2026 as Maldon hosts Dunolly at Bill Woodfull Reserve.
The Bombers and Eagles finished in the bottom two last season, combining for just one victory in 2025.
However, a new season means a clean canvas and tomorrow seems to be the perfect opportunity for both teams to kickstart their rebuilds with a victory in the season opener.
The Eagles were the custodians of that elusive win last season, defeating the Bombers 47-25 at home thanks to a blistering second-quarter surge.
Dunolly’s 2025 campaign was headlined by the statistical anomaly of a record, with an eye-popping three draws that somewhat masked the internal strides they made.
With a young crop of talented netballers gaining A grade experience alongside club legends Ashlee Lierich and Mel Schodde, last season’s foundations have set the Eagles to be a tricky challenge this season, especially with the return of Lara Clements.
After joining Dunolly last season from Campbells Creek, Lillie Wrigley provided a major jolt on offence and will be the key shooter Maldon hopes to contain tomorrow.
After finishing bottom of the table in goals scored and goals allowed last season, the only way is up for the Bombers after their winless campaign in 2025.
Despite the tough season, many players have elected to return in 2026, led by new A grade coach Zoe Brown.
After being the club’s C grade coach last season, Brown hopes to maintain Maldon’s positive atmosphere while striving for a more competitive season.
Fresh off winning club Best and Fairest and A grade MVP honours respectively in 2025, smooth midcourt conductor Claire Kelly and reliable scorer Sophie Zammit are once again poised to be key players for the Bombers this season.