Sport
24 April, 2026
2026 MCDFNL Netball Round 3 Preview — Lexton vs Harcourt
After a challenging start to their 2025 campaign, Lexton can enjoy the fruits of the inverse in 2026 as they look to improve to 3-0 against the travelling Harcourt.
The Lions will be disappointed they were unable to defeat Dunolly on their home court last weekend, especially after having the lead at three-quarter time.
Despite the final result, Harcourt’s exemplary defensive play was certainly a bright spot. With Laura Suckling and Carly Chaplin patrolling the goal circle and Ella Rule and Morgan Howorth providing an extra layer of security in the midcourt, the Lions have a defensive jigsaw that teams will have to navigate with some difficulty.
Shooters Jordan Bagley and Ursula van Dyk also had their moments in round two, a pairing poised to improve as familiarity between the shooters and the midcourt grows throughout the season.
The Tigers have also been experimenting with their shooting tandem, blending the experience and poise of returning superstar Rachel Phelan alongside the game-changing potential of teenager Charlize Kennedy.
Alongside Kennedy’s proficiency with 74 goals in the first two games, good enough for fifth in the goal-scoring charts, the Tigers’ defence has remained their strong point.
In their gritty victory over Maldon, Eliza Bell, Shanae Hepworth and Cindy Teggerth headlined a defence that allowed just 10 goals in the first half.
Caitlin Howell and Darci Berry have been crucial in linking everything together for the Tigers, two players Howorth and Rule will likely be asked to contain on Sunday.