NETBALL
A GRADE
THE Towners’ gameplay continues to improve each week and is becoming noticeably smarter.
It is clear they are beginning to make more thoughtful decisions on court and are working hard to implement strategies learnt at training.
There was strong movement around the ring this week, which created space and valuable shooting opportunities.
In defence, the team applied consistent pressure down the court, working tirelessly to slow Merrigum and force turnovers.
Although the result did not go their way, the signs of progress are undeniable, and their games remain highly competitive.
SCOREBOARD: Merrigum 40 defeated Violet Town 34.
Awards went to Melanie Humphries and Maddie Gottschling.
B GRADE
THE Towners got off to a slow start, and things worsened with injuries and illness affecting the team.
However, it was a great example of the depth within the club, with players being added to the team list mid-game to ensure a full side on court.
A big thank you to Emma Warnock, Ashleigh Bertoli, and Bianca Robins for stepping in and to the spectators who showed great care towards the players.
There is no doubt the Towners will be back to full strength next week.
SCOREBOARD: Merrigum 40 defeated Violet Town 26.
Awards went to Hannah Sharp and Ash Antonis.
C GRADE
IT was an outstanding performance from the Towners, securing their second win of the season.
Remarkably, the C Grade squad had gone winless for nearly five years prior to this season.
While their passing was occasionally off target, their performance improved as the match progressed, ultimately securing a comfortable win.
Stacey Karolidis was excellent in goals, Bianca Robins controlled the mid court, and Brianna Cotchin and Ash Bertoli were strong in defence.
Every player contributed to the Towners’ success.
SCOREBOARD: Merrigum 27 defeated by Violet Town 44.
Awards went to Ash Bertoli and Brianna Cotchin.
C RESERVE
THE Towners were eager to get a win for Mikaela Dunn in her 150th club game.
They started well, with beautiful passages of play and lifted their defensive pressure in the second quarter, leading to numerous intercepts and turnovers, which they converted.
This reduced the margin to just three goals at half-time.
Violet Town stayed in the contest and remained determined to stay in touch.
Despite some great passages of play, shots unfortunately did not fall their way, giving Merrigum the opportunity to capitalise on turnovers.
Violet Town fought hard until the final whistle but did not get the result they wanted.
It was another strong team effort and a competitive match.
Congratulations to Mikaela on 150 club games.
SCOREBOARD: Merrigum 35 defeated Violet Town 19.
Awards went to Georgia McLean and Mikaela Dunn.
17 AND UNDER
IT was always going to be a tight contest.
The Towners started strong, playing a solid first quarter and converting defensive pressure into opportunities.
In the second quarter, Merrigum lifted their intensity, forcing Violet Town into errors when moving the ball through the court.
The pressure continued into the third quarter, but Violet Town fought hard to wrestle back momentum, setting up a tight final term.
Despite their determination, too many unforced errors allowed Merrigum to take control.
SCOREBOARD: Merrigum 33 defeated Violet Town 29.
Awards went to Lilliana Williams and Alexis Kloot.
15 AND UNDER
THE Towners had a nervous start but found cohesion as the game progressed, improving their attacking play.
This developing side demonstrated good sportsmanship and resilience throughout.
Their team morale strengthened each quarter and they should be proud of their performance.
It was their most competitive game to date and their highest score this season.
SCOREBOARD: Merrigum 30 defeated Violet Town 13.
13 AND UNDER
THE Towners earned their first win of the season - technically a draw - with an outstanding team performance.
Every player applied strong defensive pressure, chasing loose balls and creating turnover opportunities throughout the game.
Players set individual goals for intercepts and turnovers and pushed themselves to achieve them.
Both teams played exceptionally well and demonstrated great support for one another, creating a positive atmosphere throughout.
SCOREBOARD: Merrigum 10 drew with Violet Town 10.
FOOTBALL
UNDER 12
THE Under 12s Towners enjoyed a home game on farmers’ market day, with a great crowd in attendance.
From the outset, the team ran out to music and cheers, setting the tone for what was their best performance yet.
This new tradition might be one to keep, as the excitement clearly lifted their play.
Although scores are not officially recorded at this level, it appeared the match was decided by just one point.
The players proudly sang the club song in the rooms post-match, celebrating their continued improvement.
Each week, this team shows growth in their tackling and chasing, but this match also highlighted their developing teamwork in attack.
Clean kicks, well-placed handballs, and several goals made it a game to remember.
Awards went to Luke and Billy.
Last week’s awards went to Cole, Jai and Hunter.