Pints and Waratahs looking for Round 8 Darwin Netball Premier League wins

PINTS coach Kathy Kellam hopes some key returnees will see her side return to winning ways in Round 8 of the Darwin Netball Premier League, while Waratahs look to continue their upward trajectory.

Waratahs’ Sarrita King has been one of the standouts in a side on the up. Photo: Che Chorley

PINTS coach Kathy Kellam hopes some key returnees will see her side return to winning ways in the Darwin Netball Premier League, while Waratahs will look to continue their upward trajectory.

New Premier League side Banks Bulldogs showed their collective fitness in the first half to ultimately win 44-32 over Pints in Round 7.

But coach Kellam was pleased with what she saw from her somewhat depleted side in a stronger second half.

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“Banks played pretty well while we were a bit short on players who were either away or injured,” Kellam said.

“We had a poor first half, but I felt we were able to match them in the second with Liz Paice and Barbara Ilett stepping up and getting us the ball and giving us chances.”

Next up for Pints is Hoggies, and the reigning premiers will hope to return to winning form as they welcome back star defender Jasmyn Hewett.

For their part, Hoggies will be fired up as they hunt for their first win. And the recent return of star shooter Olivia Hatzismalis will be key.

“Jasmyn is back which will add some height to our defence, and with Liz winning vital intercepts we should be in a good place,” Kellam said.

“We have to match them. When we get the turnover we need to value it and drive forward to give ourselves the best opportunity. Each week we’re getting better, though we have been missing players. We just need to play hard, play tight.”

Meanwhile, Waratahs will face-off against Banks Bulldogs, with the in-form sides fighting for second place.

Waratahs last week beat the previously undefeated Tracy Village 33-26. Co-coach Shannon Byrne was pleased with the continued strong showings from her side, with star defender Peta Stephens making a recent return to the court.

“We’re really pleased with the girls’ efforts applying pressure for four quarters and handing Falcons their first loss of the season,” Byrne said.

“After only winning a couple of games last year this is really shaping up to be a strong season for the club.”

Tracy Village will face off against Nightcliff in the other Round 8 clash.