Comfortable win keeps Royals Saints on top

A 14-goal third-quarter blitz from Royals Saints 1 has helped them remain a game clear on top of the ladder after disposing of Kangas 2 by 22 goals in round 11 of the Albany Netball Association A1 competition on Saturday afternoon.

After a draw last week, Royal Saints started well and opened up a seven-goal margin by half-time but their eighth win of the season was set up in the third term as they dominated proceedings.

Narelle Humphries, who sat out the first half, was brought into the game in the third quarter and provided immediate impact at wing attack while Ashleigh Smith was also introduced up forward.

With talented mid-court player Taylah Orzel providing great drive at centre, Royals Saints shot clear as they finished the term with 14 goals, with shooting combination Nardia Humphries and Smith getting on a roll.

Limiting Kangas to only three goals at the other end helped Royals Saints to an 18-goal buffer by the final change.

Narelle Humphries was pushed to goal shooter in the last term and Sophie Lynch returned to centre as their side outscored Kangas again, 12 goals to eight, finishing comfortable winners, 48-26.

Lisa Amess and Paige Aggiss were ever reliable in defence for the winners, who remain two points ahead on top of the standings. Meanwhile, Kangas’ slim finals hopes took another dent but they were best served by Caitlin Ward and goalkeeper Linsey King.

In Saturday’s other match, Magpies 1 recorded a 50-29 win against bottom side Bethel 1 to hold onto second spot by percentage.

It was a seventh win of the season for Magpies, who drew with Royals Saints last week, and they are locked together with defending premiers Kangas 1 on 15 points.

Kangas survived a big scare on Friday night in their clash with Grammar 1, getting over the line by a single goal, 36-35, in a thrilling final quarter.