HORSHAM’S 13 and under interleague team got the day off to the best possible start with a six-goal win over Heathcote.

The team was nervous but excited, and took time to hit its straps.

Horsham scored just four goals to Heathcote’s eight in the first quarter, but stepped up to score six in the second quarter and draw within two at half-time.

The team took it up another gear after the long break, outscoring Heathcote 8-1.

It benefited from beautiful shooting from Lavinia Fox, tight defence from Holly Smith, Meg Carter and Pip Lees, and strong drive through the centre from Jordie McAuliffe and Katie Price.

With a five-goal buffer entering the final term, the team continued to shoot well with Fox and Ella Motton in goals, Smith, Abbie Bell and Caitlyn Ridgway in defence and Paschale Shirrefs and McAuliffe in the middle.

Horsham coach Nikki Ervin said all 10 girls played a wonderful team game.

“All goalies shot beautifully, the defenders put tight pressure on Heathcote’s attacking end and the mid-court ran all day,” she said.

McAuliffe, of Kalkee, was named best on court after a great game in goals and centre.

Heathcote’s Kira Niver was named her side’s best performer after standing out in goal defence.

The Horsham team played at the Golden City Netball Tournament in Bendigo on Sunday, recording three wins and three losses.

Ervin said it was a good tune-up for the Northern Zone championships in Mildura at the weekend.