Melton Centrals are hoping to secure a position as one of Riddell District Netball League’s A-grade top two in the second half of the season.
After a 26-goal win, 58-32, against Lancefield on Saturday, Centrals are in third spot on the ladder, having lost just two of their 10 games.
PICTURE GALLERY: Melton Centrals v Lancefield
Club netball director and A-grade player Renee Hulls was rapt with her side’s form and is confident they can get even better.
“Coming down to the finals at the end of the season, there will be nothing in it between the top few teams,” Hulls said.
“Ideally, we hope to have a first or second- placed finish so we can get that second chance.
“Our starting seven is basically our seven from last year.
“It’s great to have a group that’s been together for three years now. We know each others’ games extremely well.”
All teams in the A-grade competition are trying to catch leader Riddell, which is yet to lose a game.
Melton has shown it has more than enough fire-power to compete with any side, having scored over 50 goals on all but two occasions.
Hulls was also quick to praise mid-court player Rebecca Wilson, who has had a brilliant first half to the season.
“Bec was consistent last year, but this year she’s stepped up that level again,” Hulls said. “She’s been a force for us, manning that wing defence position and driving the ball into attack.”
It isn’t just the A-grade side that has given Melton reason to be confident for the second half of the season.
The club’s B and C grade teams as well as the under-18s are also in the top six and looking likely to secure a finals berth.
“Across the board, the committee and I are more than happy with the way the four teams have taken on the first half of the season,” Hulls said. “We’ve had the best numbers that we’ve ever had at Centrals. To the girls’ credit, they have been working very hard.”
Melton Centrals will have a bye this week before taking on Rupertswood in round 13.
