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Royals Saints exact early revenge over Magpies

Headshot of Cameron Newbold
Cameron NewboldAlbany Advertiser
Royals Saints' Kayla Thomas looks for options.
Camera IconRoyals Saints' Kayla Thomas looks for options. Credit: Laurie Benson

A powerful third term has guided Royals Saints 1 to an opening round win over Magpies 1 in Saturday’s grand final rematch that opened the new Albany Netball Association A1 season.

The Magpies won last year’s A1 title but Royals Saints exacted early revenge, coming from behind at half-time to score a seven-goal win.

Without star defender Lisa Amess, Royals Saints struggled in the opening half and trailed by three goals at the main break as Magpies, through the returning Rebecca Goodliffe and on-target shooting combination Brittany Needs and Caitlyn Wheatley, were ahead.

Royals Saints' Sophie Lynch passes off.
Camera IconRoyals Saints' Sophie Lynch passes off. Credit: Albany Advertiser

The introduction of Carly Szczecinski into the goal circle alongside Nardia Humphries had immediate effect as the hard work of Sophie Lynch in midcourt was rewarded.

Royals Saints hit back, winning the term as they surged seven goals ahead by three-quarter-time and then held sway in the last to record a 43-36 victory.

Magpies' Rebecca Goodliffe.
Camera IconMagpies' Rebecca Goodliffe. Credit: Albany Advertiser

Grammar 1 were also impressive round 1 winners, with their new-look A1 side. Evie Dupuy and Ellen Smith were vital cogs in the 12-goal victory against Kangas 1, both providing great drive.

Abbey Cristinelli and Jade Dimer were efficient in the goal circle as Grammar prevailed, 50-38.

New club Railways won their maiden A1 game, overcoming a slow start to beat fellow additions to the competition Sonix.

Grammar's Evie Dupuy takes possession.
Camera IconGrammar's Evie Dupuy takes possession. Credit: Albany Advertiser

Sonix, through Kasey Warren, were on fire early but Railways steadied the ship approaching half-time and then were able to take the advantage in the last half.

Railways’ defensive mix proved decisive as they beat Sonix, 43-38. In the other match it was Narrikup 1 that scored a big win as they downed Kangas 2 by 42 goals.

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