ROUND 5 marked a mixed bag of results for the Mixed Premier Division with some blowout games and close encounters. Top-of-the-table Parkville Panthers were handed the bye this week but held onto first spot while the Geelong Cougars cemented their claim on second spot, a game clear of the Valley Wolves. Despite getting agonisingly close the NNE Vipers remain winless with DDNA running out five-goal victors (52-47). The Geelong Cougars put on a masterclass obliterating St Therese by 34 goals (64-30) credit to their full court pressure with the likes of Jake Dambrauskus and Sarah Szczykulski putting up a defensive wall. The Wolves also claimed a big win over the Blackhawks (56-40) with Alastair Punshon leading the way with 28 goals in the second half.
Pasifika Sharks played out a thriller against Eastside Sonics with the two sides going toe to toe for the majority of the match. Junior Levi showcased his versatility switching between goal shooter, goal defence and goal keeper thanks to his commanding height and strong physical presence. After coming on at half-time Cameron Powell put on a clinic under the goal post adding 23 goals to the Sharks tally and while partner in crime Roni Lee Nuku did not feature highly on the scoreboard the goal shooter did a wealth of work to open up the circle. Rhys Carter played his part in the defensive end, nullifying easy avenue to goal while his partnership with Levi steadily developed in the second half with the two combining well and rotating through the circle to shut down options. For the Sonics, the goal scoring was relatively well shared between Beth Wilson and David Coy with the two combining for 40 goals although it was not enough to register a winning score. Victorian Netball League Boroondara Express defender, Caitlyn Degaris had her work cut out for up against Powell but worked tirelessly to limit his influence using her netball nous to have an impact on the game.
Melbourne City Blackhawks (40) defeated by Valley Wolves (56)
Pasifika Sharks (44) defeated Eastside Sonics (40)
St Therese (30) defeated by Geelong Cougars (64)
NNE Vipers (47) defeated by DDNA (52)
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