WANL 2023: Souwest Jets fall short of first win, going down to Peel Lightning by six goals

The Souwest Jets are still chasing their first win for 2023 after falling to Peel Lightning by six goals in an exciting contest. After a 17-day break between WANL matches, the Souwest Jets made their return on Friday when they hosted Peel Lightning at Eaton Recreation Centre in round six. With the likes of Brooke Gibson and Amy Donaldson out with injury and the absence of Kate Kimberley, Jen Brown and Cassie Faquhar-Reid, the Jets welcomed a number of new faces to the line-up in the form of training partners Ciara Hillery, Laura Jenour, Ashleigh Weyer and former 20s player Giaan Evans, along with club stalwart Lisa Millman. While the Jets made a quick start and scored the first goal, Peel Lightning were just as quick to respond and start building a lead. A goal via Marene Peyper and strong mid-court pressure by Ella Eastaugh saw a shift in momentum as the Jets started clawing their way back. However, the shooting combination of Kasey Ridout and Cherie Miller gave the edge to Lightning, who managed to maintain a workable lead. Despite trailing 8-15 at quarter time, the Jets started to show promising signs during the late stages of the opening term with Giselle Taylor finding her groove in the goal circle, Brooke Repacholi trying hard in wing defence and Claire Pickerill gaining some interceptions. In the second quarter the Jets fought hard but good movement by Ridout helped Lightning extend their lead. While Eastaugh and Elycce Webb rapidly drove the ball down the court, it seemed the Jets were starting to get overwhelmed by the Lightning’s strong defence. Momentum seemed to shift in favour of the Jets once again after everyone on court was startled when the game ball popped as it bounced back towards centre pass. With a replacement ball on the court, the Jets soon began fighting back once more with Taylor and Peyper making a number of goals to bring their side back into the contest. Peel led 29-25 at half-time. In the third quarter the Jets continue to amp up the defensive pressure, costing the Lightning turnovers. However, Myra Ugle made an immediate impact in goals for Lightning to maintain their lead under pressure from Weyer. While the Jets fought desperately to stay in the contest, Lightning held on to lead 43-38 at the final change. Although Ugle continued extending the Lightning’s lead during the early stages of the final term, the Jets made one last crack at obtaining their first win of the season. Quick driving and accurate shots on goal by Taylor and Peyper brought the Jets agonisingly close to making a huge comeback. However, through late goals from Ugle the Lightning held strong to win 54-48. Meanwhile, an even start for the Jets’ 20 & Under squad was not enough to topple the Lightning, who dominated from the second term to win 56-35.