An outstanding second term saw Heat 2 make a statement against Thomastown 2 in an exciting top-two clash in Section 5 of the NFNL netball competition.
After a tight first quarter, Heat was able to break away to record a 33-18 win at Mernda Park Primary School.
The result saw Heat jump into first spot on the ladder, at Thomastown’s expense – with the Bears slipping two places to third on the ladder.
Shooters from both teams shot the lights out early, but some great defensive pressure and stops saw Heat go into quarter time with a three-goal advantage.
That advantage was stretched out to 14 goals by half time on the back of a scintillating second quarter.
Heat goal shooter Rupinder Kaur and goal attack Brooke Webster were in outstanding touch in the attacking third during the second term, shooting the ball from anywhere and nailing their shots.
The Heat defensive end got plenty of ball and rebounds, with their side winning the quarter 13 to 2 to take a commanding lead into half time.
Despite a tough second quarter for Thomastown, they spaced the court well and gave it their all during the second half.
Thomastown had some amazing plays from several players in the third quarter.
Goal keeper came up Liarna Madiona came up with some great intercepts throughout the quarter and there were a number of attacking changes which helped provide a spark.
Madiona and Ruby Sommerville made some great shots in the attacking circle in the first half, before Jazmyn Cooper joined Sommerville in the second half and created some great plays and smartness in the goal circle.
Another key highlight from the third quarter was Thomastown’s strong passing across the court, despite the solid defensive pressure applied by Heat.
Heat continued their wide-open offence, which created plenty of options and continued their strong lead going into the three quarter time break, with the scoreboard reading 28-13 in their favour.
During the last quarter, Heat continued to attack, moving the ball down the court smoothly and taking their shooting chances when they presented.
Despite a tough night for Thomastown, there are still positives for the Bears to take away from this match following a promising second half.
Final score: Heat 2 (33) def Thomastown 2 (18)
