Demons claim upset win


Published on Monday, August 6, 2012

The Demons, better known as the dangerous under dogs, came out to find some fantastic form in a memorable game of netball. 

Whilst the Mernda ladies sit two games outside the top four, they played every bit like a realistic finals contender. 

With only two games remaining they remain a mathematical chance of playing in the finals, but at the very least showed on Friday that they can match it with the best. So much so, the North Heidelberg team now sits just one game ahead of Lakeside leading into the finals – and with the memories of what might have been against the Demons. 

In a tight contest from the get go, both teams’ defence were solid in rebounding and moving the ball up the court. They were both similar in tactical movements and pace around the court. It seemed like both teams were looking for an edge, one that may well not have been there given the evenness of the two sides.

North Heidelberg was the expected favourites and therefore expected to come out in the second half with fire in the belly. To Mernda’s credit, it stood steadfast and was able to match up goal for goal. 

The netball game was a good example of how teams positioned quite differently on the ladder have every opportunity to make it there day.  A team sport, such as netball, relishes leaders to step up and perform in big games. 

Mernda’s goal defence and shooting line up found a little more petrol, or passion I like to say, in the engine. The tips, rebounds and accurate shooting put Mernda in front on the final siren after an exchange of leads. 

North Heidelberg should be congratulated on a fine performance. The effort was there but it was unable to finish when it mattered. Given the great strength and experience of the team, the players will surely rebound.

Meanwhile, the champagne ending for Mernda has to be backed up. In a season which has contained a number of close finishes, it would be a shame to see Mernda go two steps forward and three back. 

The Demons have remaining games against two top-four sides, Macleod and Lakeside, in the final two weeks of the home and away season, and will fully deserve a finals place if good enough to topple both sides.

Whilst sneaking into the top four might be a lot to ask, I know one new fan who has hopped on Mernda’s bandwagon.

She, like the club will be hoping for a strong finish to the season.

Final score: Mernda Demons (27) def North Heidelberg (25)

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