Netball
23 September, 2024
Saints 17-and-under netballers secure three-peat
The Horsham Saints under-17 netballers have secured their three-peat with a nine-goal win over Horsham.
Heading into the game as favourites, the Saints got off to a great start, with Clode scoring the first two goals. The Demons levelled the scores shortly after and took the lead.
The Saints levelled the scores again and got a five-goal lead, but the Demons fought back late in the quarter to trail by two goals at quarter-time.
In the second quarter, the teams battled goal for goal, with the lead changing multiple times. The Demons led by one goal at halftime.
Demons goal-shooter Madison Scott got the first two goals of the third quarter to extend the lead out to three and were holding the Saints at bay until they levelled the scores three minutes later.
The Saints slowly got on top, and at one stage, their lead was a game-high five goals. They led by four heading into the main break.
The Saints were too good in the last, scoring 17 goals to 12 to win 67-58.
Jorja Clode scored 41 goals, with Taya Quick scoring 17. Violet McGennisken and Lena Marshman chipped in with six and three, respectively.
Zarli Knight led the way for the Demons with 34 goals, and Madison Scott shot 24.
Saints' coach Ash Grace was proud of the girls.
"We have had a consistent season, and I am so proud of them," Grace said.
"We know Horsham is always a tough opponent, and to play against their peers showed how tough mentally they are, and they showed great poise and played fantastically.
"They held their heads, and that's all you can ask for, and it's great to get the win with them."
"Jorja played well and, as team captain, leads by example."
Grace confirmed she won't take up coaching next year.
"I am just going to enjoy playing again and maybe take up umpiring," Grace said.