Fresh off a clean sweep against Warragul, Bairnsdale’s netballers kept their strong form rolling with five victories from six matches against Wonthaggi in round 14 of the Gippsland League at Bairnsdale City Oval last Saturday.
In the “A” grade match, third-placed Bairnsdale took control against the fifth-placed Power in the middle two quarters following an even opening term. The Redlegs’ ability to transition cleanly after creating defensive turnovers proved the difference in a hard-fought 39-24 victory.
Gun recruit Chloe Felsbourg (15 goals), Jordan O’Connor and Paris Dunkley were standout performers, while Anna Mooney provided a dependable focal point in attack with 24 goals.
“B” grade produced a high-octane battle as seventh-placed Bairnsdale took the fight to fourth-placed Wonthaggi early. The home side led by four goals at quarter time and held a two-goal edge at the main break before the experienced Power lineup rallied in the second half.
Despite a relentless defensive effort from Bairnsdale, Wonthaggi overran the hosts late to claim a 45-39 win. Charli Young led the charge for the Redlegs in her 200th club game, supported by Rahni O’Connor, Heidi Allen and chief goalscorer Mia Ballinger (21 goals).
“C” grade delivered a ladder-swapping performance as Bairnsdale leapfrogged Wonthaggi into higher finals calculations.
After a tense opening three quarters with just two goals separating the teams, the Redlegs blew the game open with a 16-6 final-term blitz to run away 50-38 victors. Annora Virgo shot brilliantly to finish with 40 goals, earning best-on-court honours alongside Brooke Soulsby and Danielle Johnson.
In junior action, the second-placed under 17 squad asserted its authority over the winless Power with a 15-3 opening term, paving the way for a comfortable 52-14 victory. Chloe Allen, Ava Langley (31 goals) and Rosalie Cawood shone as the Redlegs experimented with positional rotations throughout the final three quarters.
The under 15 clash saw third-placed Bairnsdale record a comprehensive 60-13 win, highlighted by a dominant second quarter in which the home team poured in 15 goals while allowing just one. Macy Brodribb led from the front, ably supported by Lucy Emslie, Roxie Jackson (22 goals) and Tulli McLeod (38 goals).
Rounding out a stellar afternoon, the second-placed under 13 Redlegs controlled the first three quarters before cruising to a 35-24 victory. Quinn Soulsby, Stella Anderson, Bella Brodribb (13 goals) and Olive Evans (15 goals) were prominent in the hard-fought result.
Bairnsdale hits the road this Saturday to take on the Drouin Hawks at Drouin Recreation Reserve.
