Sport
10 April, 2026
2026 MCDFNL Netball Round 1 Preview — Talbot vs Harcourt
After making the Grand Final last season, the Talbot Hawks’ quest to go one step further begins tomorrow against a new-look Harcourt.
If anyone was unsure about the Hawks’ 2024 ascent being sustainable, their remarkable 2025 campaign proved they were the real deal, finishing only one win away from their first A grade premiership in 31 years.
Finals victories cause expectations to rise, and even with the departure of midcourt maestro Shianne Milera, Talbot is confident they can meet those expectations.
After being one of the most formidable shooting tandems in the league last season, player-coach Eleisha Phelps and Elenoa Costello remain key pieces for the Hawks.
Loren Aquilina will link that deadly attack with a defensive unit that took significant strides in 2025 thanks to the arrival of Melissa Scott and Jane Costello.
With victories over Campbells Creek and Maldon after a strong showing against Lexton, the Lions started 2025 brilliantly before a tough run of fixtures pushed them out of the finals picture.
While Harcourt faces a difficult opening to the upcoming season with the Hawks, Dunolly, Lexton and Avoca in their first four games, some fresh faces aim to lift the Lions’ pride further up the table.
Former Maiden Gully best and fairest winner Laura Suckling looks to be an impactful addition on a Harcourt defence already possessing the talents of Morgan Howorth.
On the other side of the court, Jazz Webb and Zoe McLean will give head coach Jess Chaplin several options to pick from in the attacking goal circle.