RUSSELLS Creek's tough approach against Allansford on Saturday was the response to a demoralising netball lesson the weekend before, according to coach Fran Bell.
The young Kangaroos had a point to prove at the Mack Oval courts when they toppled Allansford 41-37.
"I was very happy with the girls, they worked really hard," Bell said.
"We've toughened up a lot from last week.
"Kolora-Noorat gave us a real lesson on netball."
Creek and Allansford settled into the game well on Saturday, producing a high-scoring first term of 11-10 in the host's favour.
The Cats' defensive combination of Stacy Rohan and Abbey Healey worked tirelessly to repel Creek's attack but were offered few options to move the ball after intercepts and turnovers.
Creek, on the other hand, was striving ahead with goalers Mikayla Harradine and Stephanie Baxter pushing their side to a 26-18 lead.
"We've worked a lot on our drives down the court and getting that front position," Bell said.
"I think when the pressure got on us, we were able to withstand that."
Harradine injured her ankle late in the third term as Allansford closed the gap 32-28 at three-quarter-time.
But despite the best efforts of wing defence Nicole Smith and centre Leandra Cowell, Creek defenders Sarah Van Kempen and Tanaya Harradine blocked any chance of a comeback.
"We knew (Cats shooter) Nicole Batten would be a force to be reckoned with and I think our girls really conquered her quite well," Bell said.
"We are a very young side. Each week we will look for improvements."
In other matches, Merrivale defeated Kolora-Noorat 55-35 and Old Collegians accounted for Deakin University 53-32.
Timboon Demons posted its first win of the season, ousting East Warrnambool 43-36, while Dennington did the same against Nirranda 37-27.
mrooth@standard.fairfax.com.au
