AGrade Round 1
Zodiacs v Intruders
The Mount Gambier Netball Association’s first game of the 2025 season featured two teams of new faces and combinations, making early predictions difficult.
Intruders have a long history of success at the top end of the A Grade ladder, so the expectation they would put in a dominant performance was reasonable one.
Zodiacs were having none of this however, and the result was a see-sawing thriller worthy of the match of the round honours.
The wind made itself known from the first whistle, causing havoc early with wayward shots on goal and any attempt at a long-bomb down the court.
Once the wind and early jitters had settled, Intruders kicked into gear with slick passing swiftly moving the play from end to end and making the most of any lose balls.
The long arms of Intruders goal keeper Emma Cadzow denied many balls into the Zodiacs goal circle, but once in, Zodiacs goal attack Sarah Miller began to convert with confidence and flair.
There was a huge momentum shift in the second quarter with Zodiacs goal keeper Emily Harvey intercepting crucial balls and the midcourt delivering them to the Zodiacs goal circle with ease.
The Intruders midcourt never let up however, with wing defence Jasmine Reed causing uncertainty in the Zodiacs attacking end and creating key turnovers.
With each turnover Intruders goal attack Tash Moreland was ready and waiting to put on a masterclass of long-range shooting which kept the scores close.
Intruders ended the first half with a one goal lead.
A flurry of unanswered goals by Zodiacs put Intruders on the back foot midway through the third quarter.
Intruders maintained full court pressure and never allowed Zodiacs an easy gain.
Zodiacs centre Sall Harful read the play well, creating space and opportunity at both ends and the blue and gold took a one goal lead into the last quarter.
As the last quarter unfolded and bodies became tired, unforced errors crept in across the court.
Intruders were quick to capitalise on any opportunity and drew back level.
Both teams played hard until the final whistle but ultimately Intruders took the win by three goals.
Best players for Intruders were Mackenzie Millard and Jacinta Packer, and for Zodiacs it was Sal Harful and Emily Harvey.
