ROBIN Hood didn’t look like they were playing their first game back from the off-season during Saturday’s Orange Toyota Cup win over Royal Hawks.
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The six-time defending champions looked like they hadn’t been off the court in their season-opening 57-30 victory.
Robin Hood coach Cindy Gilchrist was thrilled with her team’s win to start the season.
“I’m so proud of them,” Gilchrist beamed.
“Their pre-season’s been really good this year. They have a bit more fitness this year and they’re a bit more hungry this year, I think.”
Robin Hood were up 14-7 after the first quarter and extended their lead to 28-13 by half-time.
It was a similar situation in the third quarter as they went up 41-18, however the final period was tighter.
Royal Hawks, who have a number of new combinations on court this year, started to find their feet and only lost the final quarter 15-12.
Royal Hawks captain-coach Amanda Hurford said it was a matter of getting her side’s combinations to click.
“There was definitely some glimpses of some really good netball out there and I was really happy with that,” Hurford said.
“It was just the combinations and getting used to each other. It was just nice to get out on the court and try some new things.
“I was pretty happy with how we went. The girls kept digging in.”
Shannen Downer was a fantastic inclusion for Robin Hood at wing defence and combined beautifully with centre Lauren Williams, who also played a strong game.
Robin Hood shooter Sinead Bradley was also strong in her first game back after knee surgery.
Amanda Hurford was impressed with new team member Lucy Spicer.
“Lucy did well. She’s a very strong player and commits herself. She got my players’ player,” Hurford said.
CYMS Gladiators had a fantastic start to their season in the top grade with a 41-24 victory over Life Studio DVM Embroidery.
In the all-schools battle, High A came out on top 43-28 over KWS 1sts.
Life Studio settled into its season with a 68-22 win over Hawks Ace Drilling.