Sunbury Lions’ unbeaten start to the Ballarat Netball League season has continued with a solid hard-fought win against Bacchus Marsh on Saturday.
The Lions were never troubled for a 53-25 win, but Lions coach Adam Boldiston said the score didn’t reflect the game.
“They didn’t let up,” he said of the Cobras.
“It was a comprehensive win but we had to work hard for it. At the start of every quarter they just kept going and going, but we were able to get the job done.”
Chloe Curran scored 38 goals for the Lions and was the best shooter on court. Ashleigh Hardy and Lauren Gilchrist were the best for the Lions.
It’s the Lions third win, but Boldiston said despite the great start to the season they weren’t getting ahead of themselves.
The Lions’ first three games have been against sides which didn’t make the finals last season. Their next opponent Darley also falls into that category.
He said they used those opening games to build strong combinations across the court for a new-look Lions side this year.
One thing in the favour of the Lions is many of the players have previously played together in Victorian Netball League, juniors and some at the Lions.
“I was assistant coach at Southern Saints a couple of years ago and coached a lot of these girls,” he said.
“Many of the girls played at the Lions in 2015 under me when we finished runners-up and know what the league is about. They’re passionate about taking the extra step.”
The Lions face Darley this week and on paper the Lions would be favourites to win but will be missing at least three players.
Shooters Chloe Curran and Ruth Smith, and midcourter Tarryn Munro will miss due to Victorian Netball League commitments.
Boldiston was confident they have the depth in the lower grades to cover the players. The Lions’ B-grade side was clinical in its win against the Cobras.
“We definitely want to finish top two. I want to finish on top,” Boldiston said.
“That’s the aim and we know it won’t be easy. There is pressure on us with some of the netball experts saying we are favourites.
Meanwhile in the football, the Lions were unable to match it with Bacchus Marsh in the grand final rematch.
The Lions were left to rue a goal-less first half, to be 38 points down at half-time. While they reduced the margin the Cobras steadied in the last to win 16.12 (108)-10.10 (70). Ben Said kicked four goals for the Lions, while Greg Hay was their best.
