Sport
3 July, 2026
MCDFNL Round 12 Netball Preview Avoca v Trentham
Reigning premiers Avoca faces an intriguing test at their home kennel this weekend when they play a Trentham team on the precipice of their first finals appearance since 2023.
The Bulldogs couldn’t have dreamed of a better way to celebrate club legend Stacey Blair’s 550th game, not only seeing her play alongside daughter Shayla Blair but earning a key victory over old rivals Carisbrook courtesy of an outstanding second half.
Despite still playing 15 and under’s, Shayla Blair was a natural fit in Avoca’s defensive third alongside Ella Patten, Caitlin Drummond and Kodie Greenwood, who kept the Bulldogs ahead before Maddy Egan and Gina Steel caused an offensive explosion.
The Saints were also poised to have a round 11 to remember when they led Lexton by six goals at quarter time.
While Jessica Walker, Amy Vandenham, Sharna Ford and Georgia Fearn ensured Trentham maintained their elite level, the Tigers were somehow even better, stealing a one-goal victory at the death.
Saturday was a harrowing reminder of how similar nail-biting defeats have denied the Saints finals berths in 2024 and 2025, and with a brutal run of fixtures upcoming that include Avoca, Navarre, Carisbrook and Natte Bealiba, the Saints will be determined not to be denied September netball again.
Trentham’s talented defensive trio of Walker, Lauren Girvan and Madelyne Brennan will be a formidable challenge for A grade’s highest-scoring attack in Egan and Steel, while Vandenham and Ford will be key for the Saints to try and keep pace offensively.