Sport
3 July, 2026
MCDFNL Round 12 Netball Preview Dunolly v Newstead
A finals-like atmosphere is ready to sweep into Deledio Reserve this Saturday as the finals dreams of Dunolly and Newstead are set to reach a potentially irreversible crossroads.
Despite last weekend’s defeat to fellow finals hopefuls Talbot, the Steaders remain in the finals race, trailing the eighth-placed Eagles by just four points.
That’s thanks in large part to their pivotal two-goal victory over Dunolly back in round four, where they snatched the lead in the dying stages after trailing at every quarter interval.
The Eagles would love those four points right about now after ending a torrid run of fixtures with a 56-24 defeat to Natte Bealiba, their fifth in a row.
While Dunolly has arguably one of the easier home stretches to the season, especially compared to Newstead, a round 12 victory would not only generate some much-needed security inside the top eight, but also reduce the reliance on other results falling their way.
With Ashlee Lierich, Teagan Hovey and Ruby Lang leading Dunolly’s much-improved defence from 2025, while Newstead’s Amelia Britt, Layla Benson-Zepnick and Caitlan Bird are equally skilled, scoring chances will come at a premium for both teams.
Steaders shooter Brianna Jury has been in excellent form in recent weeks, while Emily Cooper will look to support her veteran teammate in the goal circle.
With leading scorer Lara Clements forced back into defensive duties in recent weeks, Hannah Kenny has been the focal point of Dunolly’s attack, scoring 52 goals in their last three matches.