WEST GAMBIER 57 d MILLICENT 49
WEST Gambier’s unbeaten start to the 2024 Limestone Coast netball competition continued on Saturday when the Roos secured an eight-goal win over Millicent at Malseed Park.
West shooter Sarah Ritter stamped her authority on the contest early with 12 goals from 13 attempts in the opening quarter, helping the Roos to a four-goal quarter-time lead.
Things tightened up in the second as the Saints stepped up their defensive intensity to deny West the same seamless ball movement they enjoyed in the opening quarter.
Aided by an improved performance at both ends of the court Millicent was able to narrow the margin to four goals by the main break.
The third quarter followed a similar script, as Ritter was again dominant with her 14 from 15, while the Saints’ shooting combination of Nikeisha Facey and Edie Easterby combined for 15 from 17 in their best quarter for the match.
The final quarter was also an arm wrestle but West made sure it did not lose a quarter and the final margin for the match sat at eight.
Chelsea Tremelling continues to be a revelation on the defensive wing for West with her speed and vertical leap, while Ritter just scores at will, receiving great service from Lisa McGregor, Jess Holmes and Tara Bryant.
Millicent has certainly found another string to Easterby’s bow and her performances in the shooting circle continue to impress.
She shot a perfect seven from seven in the opening quarter and finished the match with 23 from 27, including a perfect third quarter as well.
At the other end of the court, Millicent’s Lauren Van Eeden was as reliable as ever with her tight checking, work over the shot and ability to be a key in transition as well.
Tremelling and Ritter were named best for West.
