Sport
17 April, 2026
2026 MCDFNL Netball Round 2 Preview — Maldon vs Lexton
Fresh off an impressive round one victory against the Maryborough Giants, Lexton looks to maintain its early momentum against Maldon.
Following the offseason departures of stalwart shooter Leesa Donhardt, standout defender Brodie McKay, as well as midcourters Ciane Van Dyken and Evelyn Reid, Lexton was immediately put to the test against a fellow finals hopeful.
While it has only been one game, last weekend’s 15-goal victory indicates the retooled Tigers are capable of maintaining its premiership window.
With Sarah Griffin the mainstay of a defensive unit that finished fourth in goals allowed last season, the arrivals of Cindy Teggerth, Shanae Hepworth and Eliza Bell look to have maintained Lexton’s elite defence after allowing 35 goals in round one.
After blazing onto the A grade scene in the middle of last season, junior goal machine Charlize Kennedy seems poised to make an even bigger leap in 2026, making 40 shots in the season opener.
Bombers defenders Claire Hamilton and Emma Webb will likely play a key role in denying service to Kennedy, who scored an A grade personal best 48 goals in Lexton’s round 15 blowout of Maldon last season.
Hamilton was a major bright spot in Maldon’s Good Friday defeat to Dunolly a fortnight ago, conjuring several brilliant interceptions in a team striving to be more competitive following a winless 2025.
The Bombers weren’t afraid of changing their matchups on Good Friday, with Zoe Brown and Laney McNeill sharing time with Alannah Furmston in the goal circle while Rory Baker and Charlotte Harrison played various roles in the midcourt alongside Claire Kelly.