TYNTYNDER’S opening game against Balranald was always going to be tough, and the Roos proved too strong.
Balranald was consistent from the start and moved well across the court with some standout performances cementing their win.
A grade co-coaches GA Jess Parry and GD Stevie Bibby, who ranked first and equal third in the 2021 Central Murray League’s best and fairest award, were on hand at opposing ends of the court.
Before the match, Parry, who was also named netball coach of the year in 2021 and Balranald’s sportsperson of the year in January, had predicted a tough game and expected “a very disciplined and consistent four quarters of netball” would be needed to win.
Elli-Jane Brougham was a real asset for the home side with her height and strength on display throughout the match.
The experienced GK made for tough opposition with quite a few intercepts and rebounds in the Dogs’ goal ring, teaming up well with Bibby.
At the other end of the court, GS Ella Mirtschin teamed up well with Parry with exceptional accuracy.
The Roos had a consistent afternoon, shooting 14 goals in the opening quarter to Tyntynder’s five and 30 by half-time against the visiting side’s eight. By three-quarter time, the difference was a solid 35 goals with a final margin of 38.
Balranald’s play was superb and their experience playing together was evident.
Tyntynder, on the other hand, brought an almost entirely fresh A grade team to the court, given some absences from the round 1 side. The visitors still showed plenty of skill, so the final result was testament to Balranald’s form.
Tyntynder’s defensive players worked particularly hard, with Toni Rivett – an addition from last year’s Woorinen A grade side – a standout at WD and centre. Nichola Miliano at GK and Milly Op’t Hoog at GD also put in a top effort.
Balranald had a strong day all round, with wins in the A grade, A reserve, B grade, 18 and under and 16 and under matches against the Dogs.
This week the Roos face the Cohuna Kangas and seem likely to continue their dominance, while Tyntynder will have a home match against Tooleybuc-Manangatang.
