Sport
17 April, 2026
2026 MCDFNL Netball Round 2 Preview — Avoca vs Maryborough Giants
In their first two years as a merged club, the Maryborough Giants have defeated all but one competitor in the A grade gauntlet. On Saturday, the Giants will have the opportunity to complete their hit list with an away trip to Avoca
The Giants have been very competitive in their four meeting with the Bulldogs, but have been unable to stop their historic unbeaten streak which predates their inaugural season.
Avoca extended that streak to an astonishing 53 games with a commanding victory against Newstead to open their 2026 account.
While dynasty stalwarts Maddy Egan, Gina Steel and Lucy Howell controlled the offence, fresh faces Jaimee Mathieson and Ella Patten were just as impressive on defence alongside Caitlin Drummond.
After sporadic appearances in A grade last season, rising star Paige Walkley rose to the challenge of playing in the MCDFNL’s premier competition, helping Howell in the midcourt.
Avoca wasn’t the only team embracing a youth movement in their season opener, as the Giants gave junior standouts Kayley Walhouse, Bridget Allan and Jorgia Brown predominant roles in their round one defeat to Lexton.
The Giants produced some impressive patches against the Tigers, but a combination of untimely turnovers and a well-structured Lexton defence ensured Maryborough was always one step behind.
It’s safe to assume the Giants will improve gradually during 2026 as their emerging trio reaps the benefits of extended gametime alongside Alisha Hovey, Macey Parry and Riahni Egan, who starred last weekend as the anchor of the Giants defence.