CHAMPIONSHIP
The Geelong Cougars have started the 2019 VNL season with a huge win over Ariels.
The Cougars were able to play free-flowing netball from the first whistle. Kaitlyn Sheringham’s speed was on full display in Round 1. The Centre court combination with Vanessa Augustini provided open movement in the attacking end.
The Cougars got off to a great start, leading by 10 goals at the first break. Even with a number of changes the margin continued to build throughout the match. Cougars eventually winning 77-44.
The Cougars defenders were able to hold Magpies training partner Samantha Gooden well, limiting her scoring ability.
Ruby Horton dominated in goals, shooting 56 from 69 attempts. Horton’s ability to hold in the goal circle provided a strong target for the mid-court.
With the game under control, Vanessa Augustini made a surprise move into Goal Attack in the final quarter. Proving herself with an ability to feed Ruby Horton and score herself.
This was a positive start to the season for the Championship team.
Shooting Stats
Ruby Horton 56/69
Julia Woolley 17/22
Bridgette Furphy 1/2
Vanessa Augustini 3/4
DIVISION 1
Division 1 also had a convincing win to start their VNL 2019 campaign.
The Cougars led from the front. The team connected well and were able to disrupt the Ariels attack. Cougars were consistent were able to control the game from the outset.
Georgia Finn offered defensive pressure right throughout the court and was able to affect turnover ball.
Georgie Cutherbertson’s slick movement provided drive in the Cougars attacking end.
Simone Hickman played a strong game in goals, scoring freely throughout the match.
Cougars defeated Ariels 64-36
Shooting Stats
Simone Hickman 27/32
Georgie Cuthbertson 25/30
Aleisha McDonald 12/19
19/UNDER
The Cougars 19/Under team were able to fight their way to a win in Round 1.
It was a nervous start and new combinations took a while to settle.
The team built into the first quarter well. But, the Cougars could not break away from a determined Ariels team. The score stayed within a 2 goal margin at each break.
Ellen Doyle was influential, controlling the defensive end and intercepting the Ariels attacking play.
Aleisha McDonald was consistent in goals scoring 25 from 30 attempts.
Cougars crept over the line, winning 47-45
Shooting Stats
Aleisha McDonald 25/30
Darcy McFarlane 13/18
Poppy Douglas 5/6
Brooke Wilson 4/8
VNL Round 2
Geelong Cougars vs. Hawks Netball
Wednesday 03 April, 2019
State Netball Hockey Centre
