JEN CORNWALL
XAVIER Saints were determined to prove they’re not to be underestimated, and did so by beating St George’s by 10 goals in Gawler & District A-grade netball on Saturday.
Although the first quarter was close, with Xavier only holding a two-goal lead at the break, the Saints dominated in the second term to extend that lead by half-time.
Xavier’s Erin Miller proved to be an asset in the mid-court, allowing quick passages of play up and down the court and helping her side gain a 10-goal lead by three-quarter-time.
The fourth quarter proved to be a repeat of the first, with both teams going goal for goal.
With the win out of their reach, St George’s continued to push Xavier all the way to the final whistle, making them work hard for the remainder of their 45-35 win.
Meanwhile, Sandy Creek Green secured its second place position with a 60-goal win over Gumnuts.
The shooting combination of Danielle Penfold and Hayley Brooks gave Green the edge it needed, breaking away to a 19-goal lead early on.
Although Gumnuts had some small wins throughout the remainder of the game, it was too little, too late, and Green came away 80-20 victors.
Finally, Sandy Creek outclassed Virginia in a gutsy performance.
The Cockatoos capitalised on some early turnovers in the first quarter, allowing them to take a 10-goal lead at the first break.
Virginia found its momentum, dominating the court for the second quarter, and started to find ways around the Cockies’ defence and narrow the margin.
However, Sandy Creek defender Nicole Tucker was quick to read the ball and made Virginia shooting combo Tammy Lamont and Grace Nicol work for every goal scored.
Virginia kept up the pressure throughout the four quarters, but was unable to match the determined spirit from Sandy Creek.
With the final buzzer sounding, the Cockies secured a 41-28 win and sent a message to finals contenders that they are a force to be reckoned with, even when they’re injured.