HIGH expectations are breeding a winning culture at Minyip-Murtoa.
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The Burras opened their Wimmera Netball Association 2015 season with an impressive win against 2014 finalists Horsham Saints on Saturday.
Last year, the Burras managed only one win.
But that didn’t seem to faze them as they carefully dismantled the Saints, winning every quarter on their way to a 43-31 victory.
New coach Vikki Burke praised the team’s ability to combine after little time together.
She said she expected to win the match.
‘‘It was a really solid performance from the girls,’’ she said.
‘‘They worked together well, considering they hadn’t had any time together. They’ve been doing a lot of work outside training and it’s obviously paid off.
‘‘I was expecting to win, but to actually get it, I’m really pleased.’’
Goal shooter Kirby Knight was a force up front for the Burras, netting 36 goals.
Burke also lauded defenders Stevie Bibby and Stefanie Cooper.
‘‘They were phenomenal in defence. I think they’ll be very tough to beat across the league,’’ she said.
‘‘It’s a pretty awesome defence. They gelled amazingly well.’’
The Saints were well served by Erin Mellington and Jarni Hanson.
The side will look to bounce back when it meets Horsham Demons on Saturday.
The Burras will have a good chance to remain undefeated when they take on Nhill in round two.
The Warrack Eagles overcame a tough start in their match against Ararat to steamroll the Rats in the second half.
Eagles coach Jane Richardson said a tactical change helped them improve after half-time, eventually winning 49-27.
‘‘It was a close tussle up to half-time. The lead see-sawed a bit and we just decided to put an extra bit of height in the ring,’’ she said.
‘‘That seemed to work our way. The persistence of our players was great even though we were struggling in the first half.’’
Richardson was impressed with Megan Werner’s presence in goals.
Werner scored 27 goals, while team-mate Kerry Schultz limited the Rats’ attacking opportunities
‘‘I’d be hard pressed to find someone who didn’t have an effect,’’ Richardson said.
The Eagles will look to capitalise on their good start when they take on Dimboola in round two.
The Roos opened their season with a strong 48-25 win against Nhill at the weekend.
Stawell was beaten by reigning premier Horsham 38-19 in round one.
Ararat will face Stawell in the second round.