Magpies Netball
SUNDAY afternoon saw the Magpies Open team get off to a shaky start in their game against the Eaton Boomers. Their goal was to win every quarter, but the Boomers had other ideas. At the end of a messy first quarter, the Magpies found themselves down by two goals. The second term saw GA Brooke Gibson step up her efforts and stand up to the physicality, providing greater drive into the circle, shooting truly and delivering steady supply to stalwart Maia Bratten. The half-time score was 28-23 in the Magpies favour. Tammy Thornley burst onto the court in GD in the third term, combining deftly with Riley Culnane to continually challenge the high ball feed. Magpies forged a steady comeback through determined and patient attacking, leading by 12 at the final break. The Boomers made several desperate positional changes in an effort to re-charge their forward line, but they failed to find an answer to the Magpies consistent pressure which saw them run out victors 65-44.
Busselton under 18’s coach Kara Pethybridge asked for a strong start and the Magpies delivered in their game against the Margaret River Hawks. A three-goal lead by the end of the first quarter was facilitated by the dynamic shooting duo Charlie Allen and Mia Pethybridge, and a strong midcourt attack combination of Jaymee Dahlenberg and Phoebe Pethybridge. The lead was extended to 10 goals in the second quarter, by some tight defence by Tessa Keane and Sundara Manners. Strength was added by the addition of Georgia O'Neill into centre. The Magpies dominated the third quarter, increasing their leading to 18 goals. The final quarter saw Hannah Taylor and Shukia Reilly show their defensive skill and great hand pressure, with the final score being a win to the Magpies, 70-48. Best player was Charlie Allen. The Magpies Reserves were in for a shot at redemption this weekend, after a tough few weeks and a big loss to Margaret River. The Magpies came out strong and were not there to be pushed around. Holding their ground and keeping their game clean allowed the Magpies to keep it within reach. Half-time called for a switch up bringing on some young Magpies from 18’s in Mia Pethybridge and Ash Farmer. Starting the third quarter down by two, the defensive intensity lifted with Tammy Thornley and Yasmin Riley working together seamlessly, making life difficult for the Hawk’s attack. The defence proved so strong through the last half they were able to shut down the Hawks. The Magpies’ attack thrived with Pethybride and Sophie Brandis capitalising on every intercept. Final score 34-31. Yasmin Riley was named best player for her consistent effort and decision making. All three teams now have a bye.
South West Netball Carnival
IT was with great relief that 27 teams met on Sunday morning for a rain free netball tournament. Teams travelled from as far away as Manjimup, Pinjarra, Margaret River, Bunbury and Waroona to play in the 12-year-old and 14-year-old girls’ annual netball carnival. Busselton hosted and fielded five of their own teams. The carnival gives the development teams an opportunity to play against some of the best in their age group. Busselton showed fantastic commitment from the coaches and players.The results were: 12’s Div 1: 1st Busselton; 2nd Bridgetown; 12’s Div. 2: 1st Busselton; 2nd Pinjarra; 14’s Div. 1: 1st Manjimup; 2nd Busselton; 14’s Div. 2: 1st Busselton; 2nd Bunbury. It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm of the girls and the high standard of play.