Sport
7 August, 2026
MCDFNL Round 17 Netball Preview — Maldon vs Trentham
After back-to-back seasons of falling agonisingly short of qualification, Trentham has a golden opportunity to secure a finals return this weekend against Maldon.
With two rounds remaining, the eighth-placed Saints sit four points clear of Harcourt in ninth and Maryborough in tenth. As the Lions and Giants prepare for tough matchups against Avoca and Carisbrook respectively, Trentham knows a victory against the winless Bombers would almost certainly punch their ticket to the postseason party.
While they find themselves in an incredibly favourable position, it would be understandable for Trentham to have some nerves as they attempt to avenge their ninth-place finishes in 2024 and 2025.
While their defence was hampered by the absence of Jessica Walker, the Saints showed attacking promise against Natte Bealiba last weekend thanks to Amy Vandenham, Sharna Ford and Keisha Shearer.
Since being called up from C grade, Shearer has been an effective solution to Trentham’s recent scoring woes, netting a combined 54 goals at an 86 percent conversion rate in her first two games.
Defenders Heidi Brookes and Eva Gross will be crucial in limiting Shearer’s production as Maldon strives to end their tough season on a high note. While an elusive victory remains unattained, the Bombers have showcased immense improvement from 2025, boosting their percentage by nearly 15 points.
After being held to 18 goals in their round six meeting against the Saints, Maldon midcourters Claire Kelly and Charlotte Harrison will look to get Alannah Furmston and Sophie Zammit on a shooting roll early.