A second-half domination by Kilmore 1 was the difference in their Round 7 match against Montmorency 2 in Section 4 of the NFNL Section 4 netball competition.
Kilmore’s precision passing and accuracy in front of goal was too much to handle for Montmorency in the second half at Mernda Central College on Friday night, winning 34-22.
Despite Montmorency opening the scoring through the first centre pass of the match, Kilmore headed into quarter time with a one-goal lead after a tight first quarter.
Kilmore goal attack Kristy Nunn was heavily involved in the first quarter, which included scoring three goals from long range. Wing defence Madison Citarevic was heavily involved in the play and she utilised her speed, making two interceptions.
Montmorency goal attack Amy Clay played a superb first quarter making interceptions, taking important catches and shooting three goals. Rebecca Gould played her part in goal defence while also helping attack down the court.
After another close quarter Kilmore would maintain their one goal advantage, heading into half time 14-13.
Kilmore goal keeper Trinity Drain was a presence coming off the bench, taking numerous interceptions and rebounds.
Montmorency goal shooter Amy Dillon was great in the second quarter, shooting a team-high six goals. Centre Laura Misale dominated the midcourt with her aggression and intensity on the ball.
The Blues extended their lead to five at three quarter time, leading 23-18.
Kilmore goal shooter Chrystella Neophitou was lethal in third quarter shooting a game-high seven goals for the quarter.
Goal keeper Trinity Drain used her height to her advantage dominating the rebounds and propelling Kilmore attacks. Wing defence Ebony Mandanici was too fast for Montmorency and controlled possession all over the court.
Montmorency goal defence Tahlia McLeish was excellent in the third quarter stopping countless Kilmore attacking plays. Goal attack Amy Clay had another good quarter with four goals, while wing attack Laura Misale provided an attacking option for the Magpies.
A dominant final quarter by Kilmore saw them extend the final margin to 12, winning the match 34-22.
Kilmore wing attack Cara Jarvie put on a show in the final quarter with her superb passing allowing goal shooter Chrystella Neophitou to shoot an additional seven goals for the quarter.
The Blues’ defence was also huge in the final quarter, restricting the Monty shooters to their lowest tally for the game.
The final margin may have been worse for Montmorency without defender Tahlia McLeish. She was superb, taking countless interceptions and always being under the net for the rebound.
Monty goal attack Amy Clay played a solid game, shooting a team-high 11 goals and being involved up the court in many passing chains.
Kilmore goal shooter Chrystella Neophitou (match-high 20 goals) was terrific, especially in the second half. Mid courter Cara Jarvie was good all match with her precision passing slicing through the Montmorency defence.
Final score: Kilmore 1 (34) def Montmorency 2 (22)
