Strikers mark historic moment

IT’S another historic moment for Bendigo Strikers this Sunday when the club plays its first home games in the eighth round of the Victorian Netball League season.

At championship level the Strikers take on unbeaten ladder-leader Boroondara Express from 3.30pm at Red Energy Arena in Marong Road, West Bendigo.

The Strikers’ management team is confident the clashes will draw hundreds of fans to witness the state’s highest level of netball.

A 15-goal victory against Western Warriors in round seven improved Bendigo’s record to 2-4.

The Tracey Brereton-coached Strikers will be primed for this test against an Express line-up that includes Bendigo-raised stars Ruby Barkmeyer and Sophie Shoebridge.

Strikers goalshooter Milly Brock poured in 34 goals against the Warriors and had great support from Teal Hocking, 19; and Bridgette Furphy, seven.

In mid-court, Chelsea Sartori teams brilliantly with Milly Wicks, Ashley Ryan and Heather Oliver.

Defensively the Strikers have Charlotte Sexton and Ruby Turner.

The Strikers took on the Warriors without captain and gun centre Meg Williams and defender Imogen Sexton.

A great sign for Bendigo’s team is players nailing their opportunity when on court and working on a game plan set by Brereton and director of coaching Carol Cathcart.

First pass on Sunday will be at 2pm when Bendigo plays Boroondara in the 23-and-under contest.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Strikers will have sights on back-to-back victories following a thrilling match against Western Warriors.

A 54-53 result was the Strikers first and capped the many hours the coaches, players and officials have dedicated to training and the weekly travel to play at the State Netball Centre in Parkville.

Express has a 3-4 record and is sixth on the ladder.

Players to watch for Strikers include Golden Square’s Mia McCrann-Peters and Gisborne’s Torie Skijel in attack, and Sandhurst’s Shae Clifford in mid-court.