SWNFL 2023: Donnybrook Blackwood Ravens shake off tough losses with 11-goal win over Augusta Margaret River

Donnybrook Blackwood Ravens have shaken off the past few weeks of tough losses in the midst of close contests, holding off Augusta Margaret River by 11 goals. As the 2023 South West Netball Football League season returned from a bye during round 10, the Ravens travelled to Margaret River Recreation Centre to take on the Hawks on Saturday. It was an even start to the contest with both sides matching each other goal for goal early. The Hawks’ defenders were impressive early with Janet Smith making plenty of defensive rebounds while Sophie Proudfoot was putting the pressure on Donnybrook Blackwood’s shooters. On the other side of the court, Georgia Ride was putting her body on the line to try and keep the ball in play as Kyarna Trigwell and Jasmin Culverwell mounted the pressure for the Ravens. Twin shooters Rachel and Tessa Kilchenmann made an impact for the Ravens, making great movement within the goal circle to give the Ravens the lead. Just as the Ravens were starting to pull away, the Hawks fought back late to keep the margin at two goals at quarter-time. The Hawks made a fast start to the second quarter in a bid to keep building momentum, while the Ravens fought desperately to hold on to the lead. As the contest became more high-impact and physical, the Ravens kept composed to lead 28-24 at half-time. While the Hawks continued to fight hard, including great movement by Jessi Whitehead within the goal circle, the Ravens were starting to pull away. It wasn’t until the final quarter where the Ravens really consolidated the win, shooting 14 goals to the Hawks’ 10 to win 53-42. Meanwhile at Leschenault Leisure Centre, Harvey Brunswick Leschenault have continued to build a case as a top contender, holding off South Bunbury by nine goals. Although South Bunbury certainly put them under pressure throughout the contest, a strong start helped the Lions on their way to victory, holding off the Tigers 53-44.