The game in Mansfield on Saturday was back and forth, with the hosts emerging victorious 48-38.
Bridget Hill starred for Benalla’s offence as the best-on-court winner, the goal attack scoring 25 of Benalla’s 38 goals.
While it wasn’t the result Benalla was looking for, coach Jo Toms said she would focus on consistency for the rest of the season.
“It was definitely a hard-fought match by both teams who were desperate for a win; they were just a little more consistent,” she said.
“We did a lot of things well, but it is just about stringing together consistency for the entire four quarters, which we are getting better at.
“We are only four games in, and the season isn’t done and dusted. We’ve still got a lot of improvement to do, and we are still getting used to our combinations, so each game, we are seeing progression.”
Toms highlighted Hill and wing attack Alexandra Davies as crucial players for the match and significant contributors for the rest of the season.
“Bridget Hill was our best on the court; she is one of our goalers who moved well, created space in the circle and was very consistent with her accuracy,” she said.
“Our WA, Alexandra Davies, also had a great game coming off the line, and her availability to help drive the ball down the court and defend is invaluable to us.”
Toms praised Mansfield for finally getting a win she knew meant so much to the club.
“Although we hate losing, seeing Mansfield win their very first game in four seasons was really inspiring. They did a good job,” she said.
Following the team’s closest game yet, Toms is confident Benalla will be able to win soon, perhaps against seventh-placed Seymour, which is 1-2 on the season, at home this Saturday, May 4.
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