By Lachlan Mitchell
PREMIER DIVISION
Outer East Netball has reached new heights in the opening eight rounds with a variety of contenders emerging from the pack.
Narre Warren, led by former Australian international Erin Bell, has bounced out of the blocks to remain undefeated through the opening rounds of the season.
Bell and her Magpies are flying high leading into the next half of the season after a convincing 57-39 goal win over Upwey Tecoma just before the break.
Bell missed the clash, but Jemma Osborne stepped up scoring 49 goals in the win.
The Pakenham Lions have roared to life over the past four weeks to even the ledger at four wins and four losses.
Pakenham went on a four-game losing streak to start the season, suffering some close losses to Mt Evelyn and Olinda Ferny Creek.
The Lions have been able to carve out a few nervy wins and hold on in tight finishes to secure the points.
As Pakenham finds its form throughout the season the biggest test comes against Narre Warren in round 10.
Lions’ shooters Mia Washington and Hayley Poulton have showed their class putting on the majority of their team’s goals.
Tenielle Morrell has also been influential in limiting opposition attack as goal keeper.
ROC has also found its place in the top three with five wins and two losses in the opening half of the season.
DIVISION ONE
Seville continues to be the front runner in division one currently sitting on top of the ladder with an 8-0 start to the season.
Seville’s biggest competition comes in the form of Berwick who has been the underdogs throughout the season.
Berwick has been the only side to push Seville this season, falling two goals short of the Blues back in round six.
Berwick’s Emma Clarke and Emily Pupuke were influential in keeping their team well and truly in the contest.
The Wickers had to fight back from an eight-goal three-quarter-time deficit to narrow the gap.
The two sides meet again in round 13 and will face off during the prestigious Indigenous Round.
Fellow Berwick team Berwick Springs has had a miserable start to the season.
The Titans got off to a flying round one with a 15-goal win over Healesville. But since then it’s been slim pickings with the Titans falling to 1-7 and being anchored to the bottom of the ladder.
