Netball
22 April, 2026
Dimboola, Ararat netball a draw
Week two of Wimmera Football Netball League A Grade netball had it all - including a draw and the slimmest of victories.
At Alexandra Oval, Ararat and Dimboola could not be separated at the final horn, with scores tied at 53 to 53.
Despite being down at the end of the first quarter and half time, 12 to 15 and 24 to 27, Ararat fought hard after quarter time to lead by one going into the final term.
But Dimboola weren't ready to concede the four points, and evened the score up in the last, to record the first draw of the season.
Julia Harricks and Monique Scott were brilliant for the home side, in Centre and Wing Defence respectively, while Rianna Kuhne and Nicole Polycarpou battled hard all day for Dimboola.
Dimboola coach Ant Toet said with the bye in the first round, she was fairly pleased with their first hit out.
She admitted that, for a number of reasons, the side had their challenges during pre-season, including commitments with work, Easter and holidays, a marathon, and a wedding.
"It was good to blow the cobwebs out and see where we possibly are at this stage of our preparation and season," said Toet.
"We still have Bridget to come into the side who missed with her first CrossFit comp."
Toet said she was pleased with the girls' four-quarter consistency and effort on Saturday, adding the side hit their goals and got through the game unscathed.
"We can take many positives from the game," she said.
"Better players were Rianna Kuhne, who was able to stem their key playmaker, limiting much of their forward drives and attack into the circle.
"She was solid for the whole four quarters.
"Nicole Polycarpou presented well up forward against quality opponents, kept them guessing and converted well."
Toet also recognised Eloise Wills, who she said had a great game in defence with a clean game, strong rebounding and helping bring the ball out of defence.
"Another week off is not ideal, but does give us another week to continue with our preparation and look at where we are heading," concluded Toet.