Defensive intensity a key for Saints

STRONG defensive play will be a key to Heathcote’s play against Colbinabbin in Saturday’s second round of A-grade netball action in the Bendigo Bank Heathcote DFNL season.

First-year coach at the Saints, Chloe Meulenmeesters said the ability to force Colbinabbin in to tough shots on goal and for Heathcote to capitalise on turnovers would be crucial.

The Saints take to their court at Pigeon Park in Heathcote’s Barrack Reserve following a first-round loss to Mount Pleasant at Colbinabbin’s M.J. Morgan Oval.

“There were a lot of great passages of play against Mounts, but parts of our game we have to focus on a lot more,” Meulenmeesters said.

In defence it will be Meulenmeesters likely to team up with Jess Peck and Brylee Tolsen.

Heathcote’s line-up includes Telani Bibby, Sophie Pica, Lauren Wright and Cassie Zolniercyzk.

“It’s going to be a great challenge,” Meulenmeesters said of taking on the green and gold.

“We are up against a team which has great on-court connection and a lot of skill.”

Runner-up the past two seasons, Colbinabbin will again have a strong team take to the court.

A newcomer for the Jen McIntyre-coached Colbinabbin is Georgia Whittle in defence.

The Grasshoppers quick transition from defence through mid-court and to goal has troubled all opponents the past two years.

Another big match will be at Elmore where the Bloods take on White Hills.

It’s a new-look Elmore team which is chasing back-to-back premierships.

The Bloods and Demons both have new coaches and were victorious in round one.

The Bloods won at North Bendigo by five goals.

Annie Hockey is in charge at Elmore and Elly Lawton at White Hills.

Leitchville Gunbower faces the Harlowe Huntly Hawks on the Leitchville court.

Lockington Bamawm United is at home against Mount Pleasant.

North Bendigo has the bye.