The Busselton Magpies third placed under 18’s side met the top of the leader board Bridgetown Ravens in round nine of the South West Netball District Football Netball League.
In the under 18’s clash, the Ravens got off to an early lead in the first quarter with sharp shooting and great over ball pressure which they managed to maintain throughout the entire game.
A surge towards the end of the first quarter by the Busselton Magpies goal attack Emily Pittard and goal shooter Sunny Manners saw them claw back a couple of goals before the quarter was finished but it was not enough to get the team ahead.
Even though the shooters were supported by centre Lauren Brandis and wing attack Hannah Taylor, the team could not manage to take the lead and the Magpies were eight goals behind at the first-quarter break.
In the second and third quarters of the netball game, defence was strong from both teams, but it was the quality of the Ravens’ defence play which forced Busselton to miss too many opportunities while they were playing in attack.
Even with the great pressure from wing defence Annaliese Harris the number of times goal keeper Delaney Wilson overturned the ball from intercepts were not capitalised on.
The Ravens’ goal attack compelled the Magpie’s goal defence Tessa Keane to work hard to keep up with the quick opposition player.
Ashleigh Farmer’s fantastic timing and ability to read the game play saw her turn the ball over.
Her game play became a great passing option for wing attack Phoebe Pethybridge and Hannah Taylor.
Unfortunately, on this occasion the Bridgetown Ravens simply outplayed the Busselton Magpies.
The Ravens finished well ahead of the Magpies with a 36 goal lead at the final siren.
The loss has made the Busselton Magpies more hungry to beat the Ravens at their next meeting in August.
The Magpies open and reserve sides were given the weekend off with byes.
Coach Steph Millen named Annaliese Harris the player of the match for her consistent effort playing in defence.
Next weekend, the under 18s play Donnybrook when the Busselton Magpies hope to redeem their second round loss.
The game starts at 2pm and will be played at the South West Sports Centre in Bunbury.
The open game will see the Busselton Magpies, who are currently second on the ladder, play the fourth placed Eaton Boomers from midday at Leschenault on Sunday, June 26.
The reserve side have another weekend off with a bye.
