It was an opening round to forget for the Western Warriors in the opening round of the Victorian Netball League.
The Warriors faced local rival and three-time defending champion City West Falcons on the opening night of the season.
The Falcons, who hadn’t won in round one the past three years, sent an early statement with an 85-41 win.
Warriors coach Kim Bailey said you couldn’t sugar coat the result.
“It was a really tough start,” she said. “It was a disappointing game and you can’t deny that when you see the score.
“The Falcons were superb and we had no answer in trying to contain Jane [Cook’s] height. And their defence was more than OK, it was outstanding as well.
“I don’t think anyone would have beaten them.”
The Warriors, who have a new line up this season, were dealt a blow with defender Eliza Gollant having knee surgery on the day of the game.
Molly Kennedy joined the side as a replacement, and only met her new teammates the day of the match against her former side.
While disappointed, Bailey said there were some glimpses.
“We had some good patches of play,” she said. “You can see where we have grown.
“We’re still a new side. We got Poppy [Douglass] and Tayla [Honey] on court.
“Bec [Hicks] gave us a different combo. There are good signs.”
Hicks, who was making her VNL debut, finished with 17 goals from 18 attempts.
Bailey said it was a different level for her and that she was able to form a good partnership with Douglass.
Gollant is set to miss at least six weeks, while Abbey Ellis, who has been playing basketball, is likely still a couple of weeks away.
The Warriors under-23s also suffered a loss, losing to the Falcons, 54-39.
Bailey said it was a close game all night.
“We unearthed some gems in the team. Grace Hay, who celebrated her 21st, was outstanding in goalkeeper.
“She read the ball well and attacked well. Clearly the best on court for the Warriors. Young Dasha Taylor was outstanding in wing defence and centres.
“We had some good combinations out here. Ebony Porter shot a high percentage.”
Bailey said they were hoping to rebound against the Bendigo Strikers on Sunday.
The Strikers started their season with a big win against the Peninsula Waves.
Tara Murray
