Busselton Magpies open team arrived with a positive attitude for their clash with the Eaton Boomers, both teams needing the win to consolidate their positions in the top four.
Magpies dominated the mid-court and shooting circle from the start. Eaton persisted with plenty of high ball to their tall shooter, keeping them in the game. But height could not counter the dogged persistence of Tammy Thornley and later Maia Bratten, and the calm countenance of Claire Jennings, who battled all day to deny the supply.
Teamwork, multiple attacking options and committed full court defence, saw the Magpies lead at every change. Adherence to these themes drew a passionate performance from Ash Ritson, who came away with Stellar and the Chief player of the day award.
The Boomers made a late surge setting up a frantic final quarter in which the Magpies, through sheer grit, fell over the line to win 57-54.
The Magpies Reserves side had a tough and physical game against an experienced Boomers team this round. With not a lot working in the young Magpies favour, the physicality proved a deal breaker. With Sunday, just not being their day. Final score: 34-51.
It was a disappointing result having beaten them in their previous encounter but there were a few positives that the Magpies came away with including their good body position and fair contest at the ball.
Sitting at the top of the table, the Magpies Under 18's went into their game against Eaton confidently. A steady start saw Jaymee Dahlberg stepping strongly into Centre, with stand-out leads from Phoebe Pethybridge to feed into the goal circle.
Shooters Charlie Allen and Mia Pethybridge worked hard, rebounding strongly when needed to ensure the Magpies lead. Tight defence by Ash Farmer slowed Eaton's progress and they struggled to feed the ball to their attackers.
The Magpies had extended their lead by 17 goals by the end of the second quarter, boyed by a number of impressive intercepts by Hannah Taylor and midcourt athleticism of Imogen Milner.
Persistence and skill of circle defenders Sundara Manners and Shukia Riley lead to successful rebounds which the team efficiently converted.
Some last-quarter position changes highlighted the team's versatility with the final score 59-32.
Stellar and the Chief best player of the day was awarded to Hannah Taylor.
All teams now have a general bye round in the South West Netball Football League with games resuming on Sunday, July 16 with the Reserves and 18’s playing Harvey Bulls at Harvey while Open play Bunbury at Leschenault.