ROUND 1 of the Australian Netball League saw each team play twice over the course of weekend. We took note of some of the key players in the match we attended, focusing on those selected for the Melbourne Vixens and GIANTS Netball sides.

Victorian Fury:

Kadie-Ann Dehaney

Dehaney played the final quarter of the Melbourne Vixens v. GIANTS Netball match so was rested for periods during this game, however still took on the game well with her great hands over and pressure under the post. Came out to goal defence for patches and was solid covering the extra ground, showed her clever read of play in defence throughout the whole match. Dehaney was not afraid to come out hunting for the intercept and really highlighted her impressive lean over the shot throughout the game.

Lara Dunkley

Dunkley was a solid option through the midcourt, highlighting her versatility as she cleverly moved through the centre court as a viable wing and centre mover. Her stellar use of space proves why she is on the Vixens list, while her read of play and speed on the drive down court provided a handy option through the space. Her feeds into the circle were also impressive, letting the ball go at the right time and positioning to her shooters’ advantage.

Ine-Mari Venter

Showcased her versatility, playing through both goal shooter and goal attack during the match. Had all the momentum, cleanly slotting into whichever position she was needed in and adapting well to the player she was paired with. Did a great job finding space both inside and outside the circle, settling the play and showcasing her stellar footwork as she worked her way closer to the post. Used her height well in the circle, credit to her ability to hold for a lob or create movement under the post to open space for her fellow goalers. Venter was also accurate to post only missing seven shots from her 38 and showcased her technique in the goal circle proving a threat to her opposition defenders.

Canberra GIANTS:

Matilda McDonell

McDonell was another player who took the court during the Suncorp Super Netball, Vixens v. GIANTS match but showed off her skilful movement and aerial ability particularly well against the Fury. Her pressure on the loose ball was tough, at times crowding the space around the receiver and forcing the attack to move out of the circle. Did well against the likes of Venter, all but proving she has the capability to take on the higher levels.

Georgia Marshall

Marshall was a key option at the post for the GIANTS, playing out the full match and shooting 32 goals from 40 attempts at 80 per cent, proving she certainly has the ability to receive ball and shoot a volume of shots under pressure. Put her footwork to the test with some solid movement around the circle creating opportunities to go to post, taking shots without hesitation.

Maddie Hay

Had a solid game through the midcourt, putting in the hard yards against the likes of Dunkley and offering some great assistance through both defence and attack. Put some good pressure on every pass, creating opportunities for her side and used her decision making to get into clever positions to feed the ball into her sides goalers.