Netball
25 August, 2025
Kalkee win thriller over Edenhope Apsley
Kalkee’s A grade netball side will play for a grand final spot next week after defeating Edenhope Apsley 45-44 in a nail-biting qualifying final at Dock Lake Recreation Reserve on Saturday.
Leading for the majority of the game, Kalkee had to overcome a determined fourth-quarter effort from Edenhope Apsley, securing the victory in the final moments of the game.
After an even start from both teams, some crucial steals, along with accurate goal shooting, helped Kalkee establish a 13-10 lead by quarter-time.
But Edenhope Aspley quickly responded in the second quarter, with strong defence and impressive shooting from Dee Dee Lambert helping the Saints go up by two.
On the back of improved ball security and continued sharpshooting, Kalkee retook the lead and entered half-time up 25-23.
Kalkee continued that momentum in the third quarter, continually troubling Edenhope’s offence, while some sharp passing from the likes of Casey Rentsch and Amelia McRae created quality opportunities at goal for Kalkee as they held a 39-32 lead at the final break.
Edenhope Apsley slowly cut the deficit throughout the last quarter, with the shooting pairing of Dee Dee Lambert and Lavinia Fox capitalising on impressive defence from both their defenders and midcourt before tying the game with less than a minute to go.
A clutch shot from Casey Rentsch in the dying moments proved the difference as the Saints were left with a mere couple of seconds to play off the final centre pass.
Rentsch and McRae were the best on court for Kalkee, with Jarrah Martin knocking down 24 shots and Rentsch scoring 21.
Dee Dee Lambert was a standout for the Saints, shooting 35 goals, which included perfect shooting in the Saints’ fourth-quarter comeback, while Danielle Grindlay was a force in defence, disrupting shots and getting numerous steals.
Paula Weidermann, coach of Kalkee, was proud of her team’s connected effort and ability to stay calm amidst the tense finish.
“We were extremely pleased to come away with the win, especially in such a tight finish,” Weidermann said.
“It definitely kept everyone on edge but the way the team held their composure under pressure was really pleasing.
“It shows the team dynamics to push through and finish strong.”
Weidermann acknowledged the strong defensive effort across the court for laying the foundation of their win.
“We knew if we could put pressure on their centre passes and entry into the circle, it would disrupt their flow and give us opportunities to turn the ball over and capitalise,” she said.
“The defenders worked tirelessly all game and it really set the tone for us across the court.”
Asked about Rentsch’s impressive performance, the Kalkee coach identified the goal attack’s shooting and dynamic with the midcourt as being a difference-maker.
“Casey had a fantastic game,” Weidermann said.
“She worked hard to create space and was really accurate under the post, which made a huge difference in such a tight game.
"Not only that, but her movement and connection with the midcourt kept our attack flowing.
“It was a really strong performance from her.”
Kalkee’s victory will see them play for a spot in the grand final in semi-final two on Saturday against minor premiers Rupanyup.
Edenhope Apsley will meet Noradjuha Quantong on Sunday for a chance to play in the preliminary final.