ROUND 2 of Men’s Premier Division saw some big results, with three sides still left undefeated – and all sitting on the same points scored – with Geelong Cougars holding top spot after a 24 goal victory over DDNA (62-38). In other games, Pasifika Sharks sit in third after a solid 15 goal win against Ariels (61-46), while Sirens Netball defeated Southern Seahawks by 12 goals to sit in fourth (37-49). Meanwhile, St Therese sit in second on the ladder after another comprehensive win, impressing the competition in their first M-League season, with a 22 goal victory over Melbourne City Blackhawks maintaining their position in second though Pasifika Sharks are hot on their tail only down on percentage.
It was an interesting matchup between the Saints and Blackhawks, who seemed relatively even on paper. It was ultimately the cleanliness and attacking prowess of Corey Nexhip and Josh Clavarino at the post for St Therese that was so hard to stop, with Clavarino shooting a whopping 35 goals to lead the side to their second victory. It was a 15 goal to seven second quarter that well and truly set up the win for the Saints, holding a 14 goal lead at half time before further extending the margin in the second half. The Blackhawks threw everything they had at the Saints, switching up the defensive and attacking circles with Suncorp Super Netball umpire James Matthews starting in goal keeper early before moving to goal shooter in the second half settling the circle movement and providing a target at the post. He scored nine goals from 14 attempts in the final term. Saints’ 16-year-old Tristan Comans proved pivotal with his elevation and hands over pressure in defence, pairing nicely in the circle with Dylan Nexhip. Riley Richardson impressed in centre feeding with ease though his first half opposition, Matt Doyle certainly held his ground, finding plenty of ball and avenue into the circle at the other end.
Geelong Cougars (62) defeated DDNA (38)
Pasifika Sharks (61) defeated Ariels (46)
Southern Seahawks (37) defeated by Sirens Netball (49)
St Therese (61) defeated Melbourne City Blackhawks (39)
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