Heidelberg West 1 have claimed their first win of the 2023 NFNL winter netball season, producing a strong final quarter to defeat Hazel Glen 1 by nine goals at La Trobe Sports Stadium.
Both sides produced an even opening three terms, with the Hawks edging out a two-goal lead at the final change before they piled on 12 goals to five to finish 34-25 victors.
Renee Hulls and Shanae Wilson shared the scoring with 17 goals apiece, with Hulls’ tally on Friday now making it 37 goals for the season.
For Hazel Glen, Kailey Ferguson produced 12 of her sides 25 majors, with Haylie Baker (10) and Nicole Psaila (three) also contributing. Whilst Hazel Glen’s Payton Condon was a standout in wing defence, providing tight defensive pressure throughout the match.
It would be Hazel Glen that would take the early lead in the match, as they created a two-goal advantage at quarter time.
Ferguson would have her best quarter, slotting five of her side’s six goals for the term, while Narelle Draper was a rock in defence, ensuring there were no easy chances on goal for the Hawks.
Both teams lifted their work rate in the second term, each having good patches of transition in attack. Heidelberg West centre Nicole Cult was excellent in starting plays, providing options and a establishing a presence on the court.
Her efforts helped the Hawks produce a nine-goal term and take the lead off their opposition at half time.
Hazel Glen found momentum in the early stages in the third quarter to get back the lead, but it would soon be Shanae Wilson’s turn to have her say on the contest.
She would convert eight of Heidelberg West’s nine goals for the quarter, with her efficiency and accuracy in front of goal keeping her side in the match.
Hazel Glen were still up to the task with an eight-goal term of their own, meaning the Hawks only extended their advantage to two goals at the final break.
Although Hazel Glen had been consistent throughout the first three terms, the Hawks would break the game open in a superb in the final term, scoring 12 goals to five.
Their ability to force Hazel Glen into held ball, while constantly winning the ball back in their defensive third help pave the way for their side’s first win of the 2023 season.
