Sport
22 May, 2026
2026 MCDFNL Netball Round 7 Preview — Maldon v Natte Bealiba
Natte Bealiba looks to extend its undefeated start to 2026 when they travel to Bill Woodfull Reserve to take on Maldon.
Outside of their gripping season-opener against Navarre, the Swans have been meticulous in dissecting their opposition, winning their last three games by an average margin of 53 goals.
While shooters Chelsea Ross, Sian and Eve Mortlock added scoreboard pressure from the other end, the towering defensive duo of Naomi Medlyn and Ellie Martin have been in outstanding form to start the season.
Medlyn hasn’t missed a beat since missing all of last season due to injury, while Martin continues to develop as one of the competition’s premier defenders.
The Bombers also showcased some defensive capabilities in their recent matchup against Trentham, restricting the Saints to 19 goals in the first half.
While their defensive pressure opened the door for their first victory since their 2024 home and away finale, Maldon couldn’t find a rhythm in attack, held to 18 goals for the match.
Despite results not currently going their way, that long-awaited victory seems to be around the corner, with Sophie Zammit, Alannah Furmston and Eva Gross all playing well to start the season.
The Swans were ruthless in their meeting with the Bombers last season, finishing with 95 goals in an 82-goal drubbing. While Maldon would need a historic upset to defeat Natte, they’ll be motivated to be more competitive this weekend.