It was smiles all round for Melton South netballers, with all five teams kick-starting the season with wins against local rivals Melton on Saturday.
The A-grade girls fought out a thriller to return to the winners’ list – the first time since 2015.
While much had been made about the losing streak of Panthers’ senior footballers, the A-grade netballers’ drought had been going a week longer.
The Panthers’ last A-grade win came on July 18, 2015, when then Melbourne Vixens shooter Karyn Bailey helped them beat Melton.
On Saturday, the Panthers had to do it the hard way, coming from behind in the second half to win 34-33.
The Bloods led by as many as six goals in the third quarter, as both teams struggled in the windy conditions.
The Panthers reduced the margin to one goal at the last break and managed to get the early ascendancy in the final quarter to take the lead. Once in front, the Panthers stayed there. The Bloods cut the margin, but it was too little too late.
Alexis Climas was named the Panthers best, shooting 16 goals in three quarters on court. The attacking end will get stronger, after star recruit Bec Colwell missed the game.
Bloods’ playing coach Katie Kakoschke was named her side’s best for her work in defence. Jess Bartlett, playing in an unfamiliar position in goal, shot 17 goals.
The Panthers face Sunbury Lions on Friday, while the Bloods face the Lions on April 22.
