By Tara Murray
The Calder Cannons returned to the winners list with an improved performance against Murray Bushrangers in the NAB League Girls competition.
Having suffered their first loss of the season the previous round, the Cannons came out firing this week, kicking the only three goals of the first quarter.
Once in front, the Cannons were never headed, and went on to win 9.7 (61)-5.4 (34).
Cannons’ girls talent co-ordinator Russell Humphrey said it was a much better performance than the previous round.
“Last week we only played well for a quarter,” Humphrey said. “We played much better for a lot longer [this week]. We stuck at it for a bit longer.
“We could have won by more, we missed some shots.”
Humphrey said one of the pleasing things was the improvement in the first quarter.
Despite having only lost one match, he said their starts hadn’t been the strongest element of their game.
Alana Barba was named best on ground, while NAB academy member Georgia Patrikios also had a good game.
Humphrey said one of the most pleasing performances was that of Gloria Elarmaly.
“Her forward line pressure has been outstanding,” he said.
“She was starting to get worried she wasn’t getting rewarded for her effort. It was good for her to play well.”
Photo Gallery: Calder Cannons vs Murray Bushrangers
Barba and Georgie Prespakis kicked two goals each.
Humphrey said the Cannons were making sure they looked after the bottom-age girls such as Prespakis.
“She’s similar to the other 16-year-olds, she’s going OK,” he said.
“There’s still another two years in her development. We’re trying to look after her and the other 16-year-olds, so they don’t get tired.
“It’s a long year.”
The win has the Cannons sitting third after five rounds.
Humphrey said the key is to continue to improve.
“The improvement from the start of the year and even from last year is really impressive. I’m excited by what this group has done so far.”
Meanwhile, the Northern Knights also recorded their fourth win of the season, defeating the Eastern Ranges, 7.8 (50)-4.2 (26).
The Knights remain second on the ladder, behind the undefeated Geelong Falcons.
MORE NAB LEAGUE NEWS
www.starweekly.com.au/sports/calder-cannons-show-control/
