Downlands primed for netball calendar with strong Merci-Chevalier Cup showing

A powerful display from Downlands College saw them walk away with Merci-Chevalier Cup honours.

St Ursula's College player Alice Marshall (left) and Grace Taylor of Downlands College compete for possession. Picture: Kevin Farmer

NETBALL: Downlands College has sent out a statement ahead of the Vicki Wilson Cup regional qualifiers.

Downlands will enter the event with plenty of confidence after a convincing 60-20 victory in the Merci-Chevalier Cup over St Ursula’s on Friday night.

Leading from the opening whistle, Downlands put on an impressive four-quarter display to lead at every change.

Coach Wendy McPherson said it was a memorable night for the school, as they prevailed in five of the six contests across the evening

“We had a great night. What was most impressive was the win in the main game,” she said.

“The girls played exceptionally well, and full credit to them, they played out the full game, even though the score blew out.

“It shows respect to the opposition that they didn’t treat them lightly, and to St Ursula’s credit, they fought right to the end and didn’t give up.”

Led from the front by their co-captains, McPherson praised the way the squad has been able to come together ahead of their Vicki Wilson Cup tilt on Friday.

“The camaraderie among the girls is great,” she said.

“They really supported each other, not only on the night but in the lead-up. They’re a great group of girls.

“The whole team was great. Our captains Grace Taylor and Bella Waters were wonderful and really led from the front with great games, and everyone played well following in their footsteps.

“Everyone got good court time and we finished with all our senior players on the court which was a nice way to finish.

“The Vicki Wilson regionals are less than a week away, and we’re hoping for a top-two finish.

“You can never assume anything.

“But we’re quietly confident that if we play as well as we did, we should get through to the finals.”