Saints preparing for top-five battle with Swans

ST MARY’S coach Kathryn Vickers is expecting a tough match-up with South Barwon tomorrow (Saturday, June 21) in the GFL A grade competition.

The third versus fifth Round 9 battle is at the Swans’ McDonald Reserve at 1.15pm.

“To have the intensity from the start is crucial to keeping with them,” Vickers said.

“They are a quality opposition and have a lot of good experience.

“Shutting down their goalers early will be a big focus, Ellen Doyle and Olivia Cameron are a tough combination to beat.

“Also, just keeping the connection with players on the court and positivity throughout the whole team, the entire time on the bench and court will be important.”

 

The Saints beat Colac 59-45 away last weekend and had a seven-goal lead at half-time.

Wing attack Ava Pierce, Ellie Kennedy and Eliza Brown featured in the best and Isabelle Grapsas top-scored with 30 conversions.

“We capitalised on our turnovers and protected the ball all the way to goal,” the coach said.

“Our goalers and mids are combining well with whoever is on the court at the time.

“They’re playing 100 per cent for the time they’re on and it’s been effective for this group.”

St Mary’s, who are fifth on the ladder with a 4-3 record, bounced back after losing to St Joseph’s 48-28 before their bye.

 

They also lost to Leopold 42-36 in Round 5.

“I think from the losses we learnt what combinations work well and how to execute better to each player,” Vickers said.

“We’ve also been working a lot on our decision making and just being a more positive group either on the court or off, which is really great to be a part of.”