By Rebekah Bogos
Netball fans were treated to an electrifying night at Casey Stadium as the Casey Demons hosted the Southern Saints in the Victorian Netball League (VNL) Reserves, 23-Under and Championship matches.
A passionate home crowd played a crucial role in the Demons’ success, helping the 23-Under team to a hard-fought victory and inspiring a stunning final-quarter comeback in the Championship match.
The evening began with a showcase of the full netball pathway, featuring a Community Clubs mini-match between Narre Warren and South East Melbourne Netball Club.
This display of grassroots talent set the stage for the elite-level competition that followed.
The Southern Saints kicked off proceedings with a win in the VNL Reserves, securing an early triumph in the first match of the day.
However, the 23-Under game was a gripping contest, with both teams locked in a goal-for-goal battle for the entire 60 minutes.
Casey’s midcourt duo of Jessie Pruvlj and Ruby Dwyer showed great composure as they worked through the Saints’ defensive pressure.
Captain Holly Stephens demonstrated her leadership, keeping her team focused in the closing moments.
The turning point came in the final quarter, when defender Lupe Fonua stepped up with crucial turnovers, sealing a 52-49 victory for the Demons.
The Championship match started just as tightly, with both teams exchanging goals in an intense first quarter.
The Saints capitalised on some Demons errors in the second quarter, heading into halftime with a three-goal lead.
However, Casey’s defensive unit worked tirelessly to chip away at the deficit, applying relentless pressure across the court.
The momentum shifted dramatically in the final quarter as young goaler Puiti Laban combined brilliantly with Emma Ryde to produce a dominant 18-goal term.
Their clinical finishing and the Demons’ renewed intensity powered them to a remarkable nine-goal victory, winning 64-55.
Championship Coach, Erin Bell was excited to see her side rewarded for their persistent effort and willingness to take the game on.
It is Bell’s first victory as Championship Coach with Casey Demons.
Looking ahead, Casey faces a tough challenge in Round 3 against top-of-the-table City West Falcons. They will return to Casey Stadium on Wednesday, April 9, for their next community home game against Boroondara Express.
Fans can secure tickets via TryBooking or at the door, with action kicking off at 7:00 pm.
-Rebekah Bogos-
