Football
11 July, 2025
Swifts meet improving Natimuk
The Swifts will hope to reignite their A Grade netball finals hopes when they host Natimuk United this Saturday in round 13 of the Horsham District Football Netball League.
The Stawell side, currently in sixth, won their round one matchup 46-34 and with a home-ground advantage, enter the clash as favourites.
But Natimuk have shown improvement throughout the season, having won four out of their last five games to leave them seventh on the ladder.
After an impressive start to their season where they won six out of their first eight games, the Swifts have lost three games in a row.
Amy Kenny, coach of the Swifts, says injury has plagued their team in recent weeks, but she has been proud of their efforts.
“Unfortunately for us, we have been laced with some hard luck in recent weeks,” Kenny said.
“Sporting a concussion injury for goaler Bek Pye as well as four out with respiratory illness against Noradjuha Quantong and two out against Rup.”
“Last week was the first week since Kaniva (round nine) that we have had a full list.
“We couldn't be prouder of the team's efforts in absence of the legs and depth we have relied on early in the season.
“We got the opportunity to play and debut some young, upcoming players during this time, which was a real highlight.”
With the potential for Natimuk to push the Swifts out of sixth spot, Kenny knows Saturday’s game will be a tough encounter.
“Natimuk are on the rise - they are young and aerial,” Kenny said.
“In saying that, we will do as we have each week and focus on our game plan.”
Kenny believes the team is capable of making finals, currently one win behind fifth-placed Noradjuha Quantong.
“We know success isn't linear - the drive to make finals is still very strong,” Kenny said.
“Every second on court counts as it will likely come down to percentage.
“We will continue to show up, work hard and give all we have.”
In another key matchup, second-placed Laharum will take on fourth-placed Kalkee.
In their round one clash, the Demons came from behind to scrape past Kalkee, winning 44-43.
As reigning premiers, Laharum enter as favourites, but Kalkee will be confident they can redeem their round one result, currently on a three-game win streak.
In other round 13 clashes, Harrow Balmoral go against Taylors Lake, Kaniva Leeor host league leaders Rupanyup, and Pimpinio will aim for their first win of the season against Edenhope Apsley.
Noradjuha Quantong has the bye.