Craigieburn Eagles don’t expect miracles this season in Big V women’s division 1.
After an off season full of change, the Eagles struggled to put together full games, and it has shown on the scoreboard.
Having started the season with what coach Rod Sweeney called an “unexpected win”, the Eagles struggled at times in both matches last weekend.
On Saturday night, they lost to Keilor 71-53 before being outclassed, 101-49, by Mildura on Sunday.
“Last night, we were good for all but six to 10 minutes and we put ourselves out of the game,” Sweeney said after Sunday’s game.
“You saw quality across the board from Mildura. Their import [Alli Gloyd] was outstanding with 31 points and was dominant at both ends of the court.
“We made fundamental errors; it’s a learning curve … you have to take the good with the bad.”
One area the Eagles struggle with is scoring. In three matches so far, their field goal average is less than 30 per cent.
“It’s been a big problem for the past few years,” Sweeney said. “The shooting over the past four to five years has been left to three to four people, and those people have moved on. Now we’re requiring players to step up.
“We need to get the fundamentals right and shooting is a key.”
On Sunday, Natalie Stewart was the standout, scoring 21 points. She’s set for a bigger role this year.
“Natalie, Kellie [Bailey-Lynn] and Tahlia [Prestia] are our three leaders this year and are captains of the team,” Sweeney said.
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“They are all nurturing in a way and have all stepped up. I’ve got to be mindful as a coach to not focus on what the score is but what we’re doing as a team and how the girls are progressing.”
Jordina Katu scored 11 points on Sunday after playing only one game last season.
“She played in 2014 when the opportunity wasn’t quite there,” Sweeney said. “Last year was a disruptive year for her, but now she’s been able to get over all her injuries She’s getting out there and enjoying it, and it makes a big difference.
“We’re all feeling hurt with the results, but with the likes of Natalie, Jordina and even Bec Hassell, who’s in her first year, you see we’re on the right track.”
Sweeney says the Eagles are about to receive a boost with the return of Emma Pullen.
“She’s been away in South Africa and is back next week,” the coach said. “She’s generally a reliable shooter so it will be good to have her back in the squad.”
The men’s side defeated Oakleigh 79-62.
