Sport
31 July, 2026
MCDFNL Round 16 Netball Preview — Trentham vs Natte Bealiba
Natte Bealiba hit the road to Trentham this weekend, hopeful of returning home with a victory under their belt and another four premiership points.
The Swans will no doubt feel confident heading into Saturday’s game after a seven-goal win over fellow finals contenders Carisbrook, while Trentham will fight tooth and nail to hold onto their top eight spot.
It was an electrifying start to the season for Natte, who went undefeated right up until a reality check called Avoca robbed them by seven goals in round 13.
The following week, it was Navarre’s turn to the tune of 18-goals.
Regaining that confidence at a cost to the Redbacks last week, the Swans are bursting to get back into the swing of things, but Trentham are unlikely to go easily.
Despite winning just five of their games this season, the Saints most recently gave Carisbrook quite a fright.
In their round 14 encounter Carisbrook ran away in the first half, but a second half resurgence from Trentham, where they actually outscored the Redbacks in the third quarter, hints the side pack more punch than suggested at first glance.
Their recent performance is a marked improvement compared to their early season woes, where Natte dealt them a whopping 73-18 defeat.
Kept to just four goals to Natte’s 26 in the first quarter on that occasion, Trentham will enter Saturday’s clash knowing they need to apply pressure and assume control early if they stand any chance.
Natte’s Emma Ryan, who recently returned from injury, will be the Swan’s key avenue to goal — but Sian Mortlock and Chelsea Ross are more than capable to step up if and when required.
Trentham’s Keisha Shearer, Sharna Ford and Amy Vandenham are among the side’s most consistent players and will need to step up with their leadership and charisma from the first whistle to keep their finals hopes alive.
The Saints have worked hard for their 28 premiership points, and gaining another four at the expense of a finals-bound Natte would be the upset of the round.