The Pies kicked off with a dominant performance in their first game, going on to claim an 18-goal victory over the Western Sting on Saturday.
Magpies coach Elissa Kent was pleased with her team’s ability to execute its game plan and was glad all 12 players made a contribution on court.
“I was really impressed with their application of structures as well as their intent and communication in defence,” Kent told magpiesnetball.com.au.
She again praised the experience and efforts of her team’s senior players in Kelsie Rainbow, Gabby Sinclair and Matilda Garrett, who joined the team after the Collingwood Magpies Suncorp Super Netball game.
Returning to the court on the Sunday, the Sting brought a greater level of intensity, creating a stronger contest between the two teams that was not reflected on the scoreboard.
“Credit to the Sting, we weren’t able to find a rhythm in attack and errors crept into our game which will be a key focus for us heading into next weekend,” Kent admitted.
Finding their feet in the third, the Pies’ were able to capitalise on its opportunities in attack, which ultimately saw them walk away 13-goal winners.
Kent also said the team loved playing at Bendigo Stadium in front of a home crowd.
“The court is fantastic to play on and there was a great atmosphere post the SSN game,” said Kent.
The Pies will now prepare to face off against the NSW Waratahs in Sydney next weekend, which Kent says will be a good test for her team.
“We will treat this weekend the same as every other game because the reality of the ANL season is that every team you play can get up on the day.
“We’ll be prepared for two tough days of netball, which is very exciting!”
ANL Round 5 – NSW Waratahs
Game 1 – Saturday 28th, 4pm at Genea Netball Centre, Sydney.
Game 2 – Sunday 29th, 11am at Genea Netball Centre, Sydney.
Author: Alanna Mullan (Magpies Netball)
