Millicent 74 d North Gambier 40
A settled Millicent roster was too much for an understaffed North Gambier on Saturday as the Saints claimed a 34-goal win in Round 9 of Western Border netball.
The Tigers were without the experience of star shooter Caroline and Mel Renko, while creative mid-courter Ash Kalantarian was sidelined for the match.
It gave Cara Nulty and Elyse Willoughby another opportunity in the top grade, while Lauran Norman added to her A Grade resume.
While they did their best, Millicent played a methodical four quarters and its clinical ball movement and accurate finishing proved too much.
Tabatha Sanderson and Demi Verbena were unstoppable in goals, netting 74 from 82, while at the other end Hannah Nitschke dominated defence with good support from Portia McRae and Georgia Clarke.
The Saints’ mid-court of Paige Nitschke and Lisa Duldig moved the ball with impressive speed and with Verbena either finding Sanderson in space or finishing herself, Millicent powered to a 34-goal victory.
Brianna Walters showed great composure and leadership in centre for North as she looked to control the match for her young team mates, while Willoughby was tenacious and hard working against a barrage of possession.
However, it was not enough to deny the Saints the win.
This week the Western Border netball competition has a bye for the June Long Weekend, with Millicent’s next appearance to be at home against reigning premier East Gambier.
