Rupertswood continues to build momentum in the Riddell District Netball League, a solid four-quarter performance against Riddell on Saturday being the latest step.
The match between two of the most dominant teams of the past few years provided a glimpse of the competition’s future with both sides full of young talent.
The Sharks got the jump early in the first quarter and were never headed, going on to win 54-35.
A little bit more experience proved to the key for the Sharks.
Amy Starzer was the best goaler on court for the Sharks, while Chloe Meulenmeesters was the best of the Bomber goalers.
Sharks coach Di McCormack said the side was settling into the season nicely.
“I’m really happy,” she said. “Having Beck [Anstey] and Prue [Stanley] on the court is telling as their leadership is showing through.
“Jess Dominko was the Jess of old and I can’t be more happy with how she’s playing.
“Amy was outstanding in controlling the circle.
“That’s probably our most comprehensive win against Riddell in A grade we’ve ever had.”
McCormack was also full of praise for the younger players.
Holly Keating, who played the whole game at wing defence, and Hayley Matthews, who played in goals, both had good games.
McCormack said the Sharks were working to settle their line-up, with a third goaler an area they were still looking to fill.
Bec Said got her chance on Saturday, playing her first game in A grade.
“She was really nervous,” McCormack said. “She’s matured in the last six months. She’s just turned 18 and her speed and fitness and confidence in her own ability have grown.”
The Sharks, who are sixth on the ladder after five rounds, will face undefeated Romsey this week.
“It’s going to be a hard season and we know that,” McCormack said.
“We’ve got to capitalise on games when we can and we’ve got to get the points and the percentage and work on our transition in those games.
“Then we need to take that across to the games against the top sides.
“We’ll be tested against Romsey. I think we’re up to the task. We may not win, but we’ll give them a lot of pressure and take it to them.”
In other results, Romsey defeated Lancefield in a battle between two undefeated sides.
The thrilling contest went down to the final whistle, with the Redbacks sneaking home 52-51.
The other matches were one-sided, with Diggers Rest, Macedon and Melton Centrals all having big wins.
