Tigers eager for crack at Ammos

TORQUAY will have “nothing to lose” against the undefeated premiers Geelong Amateur tomorrow (Saturday, June 3) as the Bellarine Netball League (BNL) ties a bow on the first half of the 2023 season.

Tigers head coach Sonia Harris said the clash at Queens Park would provide her side with a great opportunity to learn from the defending champions, no matter the result.

“We’ve got nothing whatsoever to lose, it’s actually a really good chance to learn something from them and take something away from playing them, as we possess a lot of the same qualities as Ammos.

“We might be able to run just as fast, jump as high, but it’s about understanding what we do well against them and how to combat their strengths throughout the season.”

Torquay endured a shaky start to the BNL campaign against two of the strongest teams in A Grade, losing to Ocean Grove and Queenscliff in the season’s opening two rounds.

But the Tigers bounced back in perfect fashion, winning their next six contests including last weekend’s game against Drysdale to go 6-2.

Harris said once the defensive third tightened its grip on the game against the Hawks in the second quarter, the rest of the court was freed up as a result.

“We were probably lacking in our defensive pressure in that first quarter, so once we got a hold of that, coupled with some injuries for Drysdale, it was important that we capitalised.

“We allowed too many balls into the ring and probably allowed their midcourters to find the circle a little bit too easily, which made it hard for our circle defenders.

“Once we tightened up, it allowed our circle defenders to get more involved.”

New A Grade Tigers such as Elouise Barlow (St Mary’s), Taylor Mitvalsky (Tigers B Grade), Maddy Martin (returning from injury), Sophie Ritchie-Crichton (returning) and Emma McGinness (returning) have provided valuable contributions through the first eight rounds.

Harris said Torquay goal-shooter Daisy O’Kane had also elevated her game to new heights, with the Geelong Cougars player ranking third in the BNL for goals (246) and taking on more of a leadership role.

“She’s really stepped up in terms of leadership, on-court direction and just influence over the group, which has come as a bit of a surprise for her given that she’s more of a cruisy girl, but she’s really enjoyed it to this point.

“She’s driving herself with more leadership, and I don’t think she really realises how much she does influence the group, but she’s now understanding what works for her and just getting a deeper understanding of herself at the moment.”

O’Kane trails only Ruby Watson of Geelong Amateur (476) and Rebecca O’Neill in the goal-scoring race through eight rounds.