Bacchus Marsh has grabbed a much-needed win against Darley in the Ballarat Netball League.
Looking to cement their spot in the top six, the Cobras recovered from a slow start to come away with a solid 50-37 win.
The Cobras were able to build the lead throughout the last three quarters after scores were level at quarter-time.
Cobras coach Michael Saker said it was a physical game of serious rivals.
“Being the rivalry, there’s always a bit more to play for,” he said.
After an even first quarter, the Cobras spoke about fixing issues in the attacking end.
That pep talk worked, inspiring a 14-9 second quarter that opened the game up.
“We tidied a few things in the attacking end,” Saker said. “We weren’t giving the ball to those hitting the edge of the circle.
“It was about being able to get the early feeds and into high-percentage places to have shots.”
Annie Hills shot 28 goals for the Cobras, while Ashlee Mitchell contributed 22.
Kaila Ingham was named the Cobras’ best.
For the Devils, Lauren Martin shot 25 goals. Defender Tarni Lopes was their best.
The victory keeps the Cobras in sixth spot sitting on 3-3.
Saker said the win against the Devils was part of an important run of games.
“The next three rounds, we’re playing teams in the middle area of the ladder,” he said.
“We play Melton South and Sebastopol and we need to get those eight points to consolidate our spot in the top six.”
With Bacchus Marsh having a new line-up this season, Saker said they were slowly starting to click. But he admits there will be periods throughout the season when consistency is lacking.
“It’s been an up-and-down season,” he said. “There will be some pretty good games when everything clicks together.
“Then there will be games we should be winning and we’re not.
“We’ve got a young side, with four of our starting seven under the age of 22.
“We’re getting better in the attacking end and moving the ball better. Now we need to know when to slow it down or pick up the pace.”
In other matches, Melton South and Melton made the winners’ list.
Melton South defeated Sebastopol 38-34.
Akira McCormack scored 20 goals for the Panthers.
A fast start was the key for Melton in its win over Redan.
The Bloods led by seven goals at quarter-time, going on to extend that in every quarter for a 45-32 victory.
Paige Gilcrist shot 34 goals for the Bloods.
Melton is percentage outside the top six and Melton South is a game behind.
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