By Dejan Kalinic
HUME City Falcons dropped to fourth on the Championship Division ladder after missed opportunities saw them slump to a 46-34 loss against Yarra Valley Grammar Ariels in the Victorian Netball League (VNL) fixture on Wednesday night.
The Altona-based Falcons, defending back-to-back titles, again failed to fire against one of the competition’s leading sides after a short break following their four-point win against Peninsula Waves in round seven.
Coach Marg Lind said her team had its chances during the encounter against a side in top form.
“We had our opportunities. We got it to within four (goals) three times and just didn’t capitalise,” Lind said.
“It just wasn’t our night. A few things went against us. We made some critical errors when we had opportunities. We put ourselves in a situation to get back into the game (but) we just didn’t take the next step.”
Hume was again without wing defence Casey Price, who made her return from an ankle injury against the Waves after she pulled up sore with the same problem.
Lind said the aim was to get to the midway point of the season with a 6-3 win-loss record, making tomorrow night’s meeting against third-placed North East Blaze crucial.
“We were hoping we would get one of the two,” she said. “I’m not disappointed at this point. I’m disappointed we’re not taking opportunities when we get them but I think that’s a reflection of having a pretty new team.
“Right from the outset, our goal this season was to transition to a new-look team for next year. At the moment, we’re pretty much still on track.”
Danielle Stewart starred for the Falcons, moving across different positions on the court to put in a strong display.
Price’s absence has forced a reshuffle for Hume and Lind said it was unclear when she would return from her most recent setback.
Goal attack Tegan Caldwell should be back soon for the Falcons after the Melbourne Vixens narrowly missed out on a finals’ berth in the ANZ Championship.
Lind said the pair could make a difference to her team’s fortunes after the Falcons lost both of their games against the top two to start the season.
“It would be good if we could get our full squad back on the court. I think we’re actually lacking that complemented experience,” Lind said.
“You add that to your team and it makes a big difference.”
