The Bull Sharks experienced it all in a three-game Super Sunday of netball — a brutal heartbreaker in Sapphire, a commanding statement in Ruby, and a historic first win for our new men’s side in the M League.
In the Sapphire Series a heavy third-quarter swing proved the difference as the Bull Sharks fell to the Titans in a fiercely physical clash. Despite finishing stronger and staying true to their clean, clinical game style, the girls couldn’t overcome a rough patch.
Meanwhile, the Ruby team surged home in style, powering past Redlands Coast with a dominant second-half display. Their team depth and discipline shone through in a 61–32 win that confirmed their rising intent this season.
And in the club’s inaugural M League match, the Bull Sharks men turned in a composed and clinical performance to defeat Redlands 61–41, led by a sizzling super shot showcase from Glenn Ormesher. It’s a winning start and a proud moment for the newest members of the Bull Sharks family.
Sapphire Series
Bull Sharks v Titans
Bull Sharks lost 73–67
How it was lost
The game ultimately slipped away from us in the third quarter, where we were outscored by nine goals. We allowed the physicality of the match to affect our decision-making, and it cost us momentum at a crucial point in the game.
What made you happy
From a data and performance perspective, we had enough chances to win that match on any other day. Overall, I was really pleased with how we played. Unfortunately, there were some inconsistent umpiring decisions throughout the game, which had a significant impact on the final result.
Bull Sharks Netball
I’m incredibly proud of the girls. It wasn’t a well-controlled match, and there were moments where I had serious concerns for their welfare due to the undisciplined style of play from the opposition. Despite that, our athletes maintained composure, backed each other up, and showed tremendous care for one another on court.
We play a clean, clinical brand of netball—and we do it with class. I hope the young fans watching saw that netball isn’t about winning at all costs, but about playing the game with integrity.
The work to do
I was pleased with our strategic execution for most of the match. However, in the third quarter, we drifted away from our structures, and the Titans made us pay. We responded in the final quarter and were able to close the gap to five goals at one stage. The girls refocused and showed resilience—but in the end, the ‘uncontrollables’ made it difficult to break through and secure the win.
Trademark Players
Sasha-May Flegler came into the centre position in the second quarter and made an immediate impact. Her height, athleticism and reach gave us a real presence through the midcourt.
Maddie Ryan was a standout in goal defence, working tirelessly and applying constant pressure across the back line.
Mia Stower continued her dominant form in the shooting circle, finishing with 38 points, including eight super shots. Her leadership at the attacking end was instrumental, particularly in guiding our younger players.
With Rebecca Stower
Ruby Series
Bull Sharks v Redlands Coast
Bull Sharks won 61-32
How it was won
This week’s game was a rollercoaster. We started slowly as it took some time to settle in before eventually winning the first quarter with a narrow 3-goal lead. We found our rhythm in quarter two, coming out firing to take the score to 18–6. A lapse in the third saw a much closer contest and we won that quarter by just one goal. However, we finished strongly with a dominant final quarter, closing the game with a 19–6 run.
What made you happy
We have great depth in our team this year, and it is fantastic to see that no matter what combination takes the court, the girls know their roles and execute them exceptionally well. We're also working hard on staying true to our style of netball — remaining focused on our game plan and not drifting away from it, even when things aren’t going our way.
Bull Sharks Netball
We have set a clear intent for this season. And with each game, that intent strengthens. I’m proud to say our athletes truly understand this and take accountability for their roles both on and off the court.
The work to do
We continue to focus on reducing our errors, which is a key collective goal. While we’re starting to see the numbers drop, there is still work to be done in this area.
Trademark Players
We had standout performances across the entire team this week; however, the defensive efforts of Harriet Nicholson, Laura Kelly, Ocean Karekare, and Mahlia Henare stood out. They led the way in winning crucial turnovers, Harriet with 6 intercepts, Mahlia with 3, and both Ocean and Laura contributing 2 each, along with numerous tips and pickups throughout the game.
With Kim Boland
M League
Bull Sharks v Redlands
Bull Sharks won 61-41
How it was won
It was a full team effort, and all areas were great. Our defenders took what was on offer from the Redlands players and defended well as a unit.
What made you happy
We shot a high percentage (approx. 85%) and we converted turnovers often.
Bull Sharks Netball
All players stayed in play which was extremely pleasing as this created rushed passes and 50/50 contests.
The work to do
On occasion our attacks can take wrong passing option which we need to improve on.
Trademark Players
Glenn Ormesher was brilliant, shooting 9 super shots which kept Redlands chasing all day.
With David Hunt