South Otago High School received a tough introduction to premier netball with a 70-34 loss to the Southern Magpies in the opening round on Saturday.
Southern, the defending champion, did not hold back on the schoolgirls, giving them a taste of Dunedin's highest grade of netball right from the starting whistle.
SOHS was left chasing the slick Southern side as it cruised down the court with ease and speed.
With a series of skilful feeds into the circle, and solid full-court defensive pressure, Southern grabbed a handy 17-8 lead at quarter time.
Changes to Southern's shooting circle added height, and the Magpies started the second quarter even stronger, scoring the first three goals.
At halftime, the score had extended to 39-14, and both coaches made changes.
Southern's Miaana Walden remained at centre the whole 60 minutes and dominated the midcourt with accurate passing and strong drives to the top of the circle.
Goal keep Abby Erwood was a standout for SOHS, providing inspiration for her team-mates with a flying intercept close to the transverse line.
In the final quarter, Erwood was moved out to goal defence, and added punch with her driving play through the midcourt.
Despite the lopsided scoreline, the young school team's effort and determination was admirable, with every player in the team on the court at some time during the clash..
South Otago manager Jo Jory was impressed with the way the team ''toughened up'' throughout the game, and it planned to build on the performance next week.
In other premier A games from the opening weekend, a strong-looking Phys Ed A side beat University-Albion A 62-36, and College A beat Southern Tui 52-51 in a tight battle.
By Bridget Rutherford.
