Tara Murray
The City West Falcons took the rolling sub to a new level as they did a demolition job against the Peninsula Waves on Wednesday night in the Victorian Netball League championship.
Facing a winless Waves side, the Falcons had more than a win in their focus as they entered the match.
Coach Marg Lind had hinted in the lead up that she would throw the combinations around and get everyone plenty of court time and she did exactly that.
Midway through the first quarter, the Falcons made five rolling subs at the same time and it was a sign of things to come.
Every player played at least 22 minutes as the Falcons rotated heavily in every quarter.
While it prevented them from pushing towards the 100 goal barrier, the Falcons still came away with an 85-34 win.
Lind said they were happy with what they got out of the game.
“It was a bit of a test because we did roll a lot,” she said. “Our goal tonight was to get everyone on and make sure everyone got exposure in a few different positions.
“I think when you do throw as many subs, it’s really hard to maintain discipline and momentum, but that was the theme of the night to be disciplined
“We probably achieved, because we scored a pretty tidy sum.”
Lind said despite the number of changes they made, they were happy with the pace that they played at.
She said the goaling combination of Shimona Jok and Jane Cook did a few nice things together.
Cook, the competition’s leading goal scorer last season, spent time in defence late in the game as a tall defender.
Other changes included Sussu Liai and Gena Ogier both spending time in centre.
Lind said they were still trying to find Ogier’s best position.
“I’m not certain where her position is because she came from basketball, but before that she was a bit of defence, bit of goals.”
Defensively, Melissa Oloamanu had a strong game as she continues her return from an ACL injury.
Lind said she thinks Oloamanu still has plenty of growth to go. She said she was also impressed with Lucia Fauonuku did a good job on the circle edge as they tried some different things defensively.
The win takes the Falcons to 5-1.
Lind said while they’re happy, they’re not content.
“I still think our team has got a lot of growth not satisfied with where we’re at. I think we’ve probably out of all the clubs have got a bit more scope to go.
“I don’t think we’re near where we need to be.”
The Falcons under-23 suffered a one goal loss to the Waves, 41-40. It was the Falcons second loss for the season.
Lind said it was a terrible game of netball.
“I think there were 34 errors from our end, that;s not good enough. It could be a costly game.”
The Falcons next week face Melbourne University.
