Tense finish as Magpies 6 claim victory in opening round of new Albany Netball Association season

There were full crowds and a buzz of excitement among players for the Albany Netball Association season that started last Saturday after the recent easing of COVID restrictions. The round one clash in B4 between Royals Saints 7 and Magpies 6 was a great spectacle. In the first quarter the teams struggled with the nerves of the opening round and there were several turnovers early before both teams settled into their rhythm. Both teams traded goals in the second term with Royals Saints holding a two-goal half-time lead. The third term was dominated by the defensive ends, with only two goals scored for the quarter. Charli Grochowski and Georgia Wilson were dynamic for the Magpies, intercepting at will and setting up attacks, while at the other end Taylor Ward and Grace Gorman only allowed three goal attempts for the quarter. The standard lifted in the final quarter as Magpies came from two goals behind to snatch the victory in the dying minute of the game. After some tense final plays Magpies prevailed for a 12-11 win. Magpies’ Emelyn Smith was a handful all game along with Charli Grochowski. Royals Saints captain Lillian Molenda and shooter Sophie Anderson kept their team in it right up to the last minute. In the other B4 fixture, Narrikup 11 thumped Griffins 9, 56-1.