By Oliver Lees
The Gisborne Bulldogs A grade netball side are embracing their underdog status in the Bendigo Football Netball League.
Speaking before their round 7 match against Kyneton, Bulldogs coach Tarryn Rymer said despite her team’s strong early season form, Kangaroo Flat and Sandhurst are still considered the best sides in the competition.
“We like being the underdogs,” Rymer said.
“Those sides have a reputation for being around the top and being the most consistent but we’d like to give them a run for their money.”
Sandhurst has won the A grade grand final the last two seasons, including a six point defeat of Gisborne in 2018.
But this year the Bulldogs sit on top of the table, with four wins and one draw, two points clear of Sandhurst in second place.
Rymer said she’s been pleased with her side’s competitiveness so far, especially their drawn match versus Kangaroo Flat in round 3.
“The group of players are very tight knit, all working hard as a team,” she said.
“The girls have been working really hard at training and it’s paying off.”
This season the Bulldogs are looking for their first A grade premiership since 2013.
Veteran players Maddie Stewart and Tianna Newman have played a consistent role in the goal defence and centre position respectively.
Rymer added that she’s also been impressed with the effort of young players Holly Doricic and Tazma Morris in the front half.
She said her side is already looking forward to the top of the table clash against Sandhurst in July.
“Very excited for the match up against Sandhurst, it feels like we always play them later in the season,” she said.
“We’ve had a few games where we haven’t put in consistent quarters, so that’s our focus looking ahead.
“We’ll try not to rush the ball and play our controlled game.”
