Gisborne has not yet shown the consistency its coaches are looking for this year.
The Bulldogs have started slowly, despite featuring in the finals for the past three Bendigo Netball League seasons.
Wins had been split for the first six games, but the side fell behind the ledger on Saturday after a disappointing loss to Maryborough.
Entering the round with only a game between them on the ladder, the Magpies took the points 46-27. It pegged the Bulldogs to fifth spot.
Speaking before the game, Bulldogs’ co-coach Robyn Baker was hopeful her side had started to find some form after its slow beginning.
“We’ve had a few girls out and a few new girls in the side, which has made it tricky” Baker said.
“The group is putting a lot in at training and starting to work well together.
“Hopefully, we’re nearly back at full strength.”
Baker said Maddy Gay, who crossed from Riddell District Netball League side Rupertswood, had settled well into the Bulldogs midcourt while Rachel McKenzie was having an impact in goals.
“Maddy is playing Victorian Netball League (VNL) and has settled in really well, getting to know the team, while Rachel has come across from Kangaroo Flat and is also settling in.”
The arrival of McKenzie has freed Madeline Stewart to move out of goals into her preferred position in defence.
Stewart plays in defence for Melbourne University Storm in the VNL and also played at the defensive end for Victoria in the under-21 national titles earlier this year.
She’s one of the Bulldogs players who have missed games due to VNL commitments.
“Maddy is enjoying the role back in defence, mainly goal defence,” Baker said.
Baker, who’s in her first year of coaching with Rebecca Bridgman, said she felt good about the coaching partnership.
The side, she added, was keen to make an impact in finals after the disappointment of just missing the grand final last year.
“It’s a really good group of girls,” Baker said. “We need to keep on putting wins on the board and work on our strengths.
“We’re looking forward to having a full team with the rotations working. The girls have the skills and talent, and it’s about putting it all together.”
In another week match, Kyneton went down 60-45 to Golden Square to be sixth on the ladder, behind the Bulldogs on percentage only.
