KING Valley may have won just one match in the past eight rounds of Ovens and King netball, but coach Bec Swanton remains confident the Roos can have an impact come finals.
The Roos gave third-placed Whorouly a run for its money last weekend, building a five-goal lead during the third quarter only to go down 47-41, and while Swanton said a win would have been nice, she was far from disappointed.
"I was really happy with the way we played," Swanton said.
"We played some great netball, and it just showed how well the girls have started to bond and gel.
"We didn't play the full four quarters that's something we've had a few problems with.
"I think Whorouly's mental strength just came out at the end.
"But we didn't walk away disappointed it was an indication of what we are capable of."
Swanton has been impressed with the development of shooters Catherine Satori and Jessica Bussell, with the pair still learning how to make the most of their talents.
"Our shooting end has been great their accuracy has improved a lot over the season," she said.
"Cat is getting better and better with her body positioning she is starting to use her strength and height to her advantage.
"Jess is very quick on her feet, so we try to play her outside a bit more.
"Early on they were playing similar roles, but now they are a bit more distinct and they are really starting to click as a combination."
After starting the season 4-1, Swanton said it was frustrating to have won only one of the past eight matches, but she remains happy with the Roos' efforts.
"We've been competitive every week, we just haven't been getting over the line," she said.
"It's just such an even competition, especially from sixth down to 10th.
"You can't go into any match thinking you are going to win we did that against Swanpool and ended up getting beaten.
"So you just have to keep that mental strength and concentrate on playing your best every week."
It doesn't get any easier for the Roos this round, with a clash against ladder leader Greta tomorrow.
Still, Swanton said an upset was definitely a possibility.
"They are very strong they beat us by 16 goals in round one, and that's not too bad considering where they are now," she said.
"We just need to go in with a clear mind and play our best.
"Any team in the top eight is capable of beating anyone else on their day.
"Greta's defence is very good, so we'll need to make sure our attackers keep their confidence up and don't get flustered."
In other matches, Moyhu will be too strong for North Wangaratta, Milawa will look to put a dent in Benalla's top eight hopes, Bright and Bonnie Doon will play out what should be a real arm wrestle, Glenrowan should get across the line against Tatong, Whorouly will start favorite against Swanpool and Goorambat will be looking to bounce back at home to Tarrawingee.
BY - SCOTT ANDERSON, 22nd July, 2011.
www.nenews.com.au
To see the full story, see printed edition of this paper (subscribe today)
STARTING TO GEL: King Valley shooters Catherine Satori and Jessica Bussell have improved markedly as the season has gone on. PHOTO: Scott Anderson
|
Last Modified on 22/07/2011 23:40