NETBALL
THE Eastern Region State League Netball competition tipped off at Latrobe Leisure Churchill last Friday, as sides braved the heat to contest round one of the new season.
In the open division, 2013 premier Alberton, runners-up Mid Gippsland Green, Mid Gippsland White, Morwell Indoor and North Gippsland all returned with significant changes to playing personnel, while Sale withdrew from this year’s tournament.
With temperatures hovering around 31 degrees in the stadium, a new look Morwell Indoor ran into a red hot Mid Gippsland White.
After coming out on top in the first quarter, Mid Gippsland White surged ahead to build a six-goal lead by half-time however, Morwell chipped away at their younger opponents and managed to scrape out a come from behind victory, 42-39.
The experience of Christie Hillberg, Tess Angarane and Kate Sidebottom helped Alberton overcome North Gippsland 65-15 to signal their back-to-back intent.
It was a promising start to the season for East Gippsland’s 17 and under side, with goalkeeper Sally Deller leading the way in their first round match against Mid Gippsland.
Sacha Sjerp and Rebecca Adams also stood tall as the East ran out 36-21 winners.
North Gippsland fought off a defiant Sale thanks to the steady Kirsty Hodgson and Maddie Gibson, 31-28.
Alberton replicated its open division efforts in the final 17 and under clash to easily account for Gippsland.
Lauren Redpath, Brittany Thomas and Kelsey Angwin were named best on court in a 49-27 win.
RESULTS
Open
Alberton 65 def North Gippsland 15
Morwell Indoor 42 def Mid Gippsland White 39
Mid Gippsland Green had the bye
17 and under
East Gippsland 36 def Mid Gippsland 21
North Gippsland 31 def Sale 28
Alberton 49 def Gippsland 27
