Powerful opening term guides Sonics to fifth victory of the Albany Netball Association A3 competition

Sonics 1 strengthened their chances of securing a finals berth in the Albany Netball Association A3 competition after defeating Railways 3 by 18 goals last Saturday. In their first season in the competition, Sonics sit third on the standings with five wins and are six points clear inside the top four. Sonics set up the 45-27 victory with a dominant first term. After Sonics netted the first two goals, Railways could not reel them in as Sonics goal shooter Kayla Thomas sunk several long shots set up by strong attacks. Shianne Arthur was providing great options and movement setting up a smooth run down the court. Railways defender Mereana Wynne played hard to keep the shooters out but it was not enough as Sonics had opened up a significant 15-4 lead at the first break. In the second term, Railways came back, outscoring Sonics but they still trailed by eight at half-time. The third quarter began as an even contest between the teams but Sonics pushed hard to get a further four goals on Railways. In the final stretch of the game, Sonics scored first, with smooth centre-court work. Railways wing attack Olivia Steel and centre Jemma Quintrell did not stop as they got the ball to their end, however the shooters struggled to convert despite their best efforts. Sonics made this their game, with quick passes around the circle and effortless goals by both shooters, Paige Nicolas and Thomas, guiding them to victory in round 10. Kangas 2 suffered their first defeat of the season, going down 36-37 to Griffins 2 in a thriller. Royals Saints 2 moved clear in fourth spot as they prevailed 44-26 over Narrikup 3 in the other fixture. The Great Southern Regional Championships, hosted by Albany Netball Association at the Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre, are on this weekend. Thirty-two teams from Narrogin, Esperance, Ongerup, Katanning, Kojonup, Denmark and Albany will compete in games today, tomorrow and on Sunday.