Melton South got a first-hand look at the best in the competition on a tough day in the Ballarat Netball League.
Facing ladder leaders the Sunbury Lions, the young Panthers side was taught a lesson.
The Lions jumped out of the blocks early and led 21-7 at quarter time.
That lead continued to grow and by the start of the last quarter it was out to 29 goals.
The Lions didn’t let up, saving their best to last, with a 20-3 final quarter, to win 72-26. Goal shooter Rata Hunia scored 12 goals for the Panthers, while Payton Ozols was named their best.
Despite the loss, the Panthers remain in the top six, with a finals spot still a large possibility.
One side looking to push the Panthers out of the six is Bacchus Marsh.
The Cobras sit a game outside the top six.
On Saturday, they lost to Ballarat 42-30. The Cobras trailed all day with the Swans able to steadily build on the lead.
Annie Hills and Ashlee Mitchell shot 15 goals apiece for the Cobras, who had nine more shots than the opposition.
Darley had a tough weekend against Sebastopol, losing 51-34.
Caitlin Bewley shot 18 goals for the Devils, who sit on the bottom with just one win. Melton, which had the bye, sit two games and percentage outside the top six.
Tara Murray
