Tara Murray
After a number of close results, Romsey has finally got its first win of the Riddell District Netball League season on Saturday.
With a different coach this season and some new players it was always going to take some time for the side to gel.
On Saturday, they got some reward for effort, beating Lancefield 75-29. The Redbacks jumped out of the blocks and led 17-4 at the first break.
The Tigers reduced that margin by one goal in the second quarter, but after half time it was all the Redbacks.
Speaking before the game, coach Lena Way said they were realistic about this season and were keen to use it to build for the future.
“Given we’re still trying to solidify our line up, we’ve been very competitive against Wallan, against Melton we only lost by four goals.
“We were competitive against Woodend and we drew with the Western Rams.
“We need to finish off games but the girls are still getting used to each other which has been a big factor.”
Way said they were still working on settling down their starting seven with injuries and unavailability also hitting the side.
In recent weeks, they’ve been able to add in a couple of their key players, along with some handy fill ins.
Midcourter Maggie Lind has joined the Redbacks, as has her City West Falcons teammate Lucia Fauonuku.
Three different Falcons goalers have also pulled on the Redbacks dress. Uneeq Palavi played on Saturday and scored 58 goals in the win.
“The quality of players like Maggie and Uneeq, they’re absolute guns,” Way said.
“Maggie and Lucia are contracted. Having Maggie is such a benefit not only for her experience, as she has played at the highest level of netball, but her leadership on the court.
“She is the main ball carrier.”
Way said they were still finalising that last shooting option,
While the Redbacks have added some talent with the Victorian Netball League players, it’s been the work done by those coming back to the club and the next generation which really excites Way.
Way said this season was one of building the foundations for the future.
“We’ve got young ones like Emily Miles who has come straight up from the under-17s,” she said.
“She played her first game against the Western Rams and she’s still managing her return from injury
“We’ve got a lot of young girls in B-grade and a number in the under-17s that will be coming up next year.
“We’re looking to build and develop the talent and be competitive every week.”
In other results, Macedon suffered its first loss of the season at the hands of Woodend-Hesket.
After trailing at quarter time, the Hawks got going and were able to build to a 42-29 win.
Abby Gilmore shots 26 goals for the Hawks, while Chloe Williams shot 19 for the Cats.
It was a defenders game with Tayissa Coppinger and Katie Clarke named their side’s best respectively.
Riddell came from behind to beat Melton Centrals 42-41 after a 15-5 final term, while Wallan beat Diggers Rest 36-26.
