WANL 2023: Souwest Jets fall short of strong finish to season with 67-44 loss to Curtin Hamersley Comets

The Souwest Jets’ bid to end their WA Netball League season on a high note has been quashed by the Curtin Hamersley Comets, who dominated from the outset to win by 23 goals. The Jets travelled to Perth’s Gold Netball Centre on Friday to take on the Comets in the final round of the regular WANL season. While the Jets welcomed the return of Brooke Gibson, who had been absent from the court since suffering an ankle injury the last time the two sides met in round five, the Jets found themselves plagued by having to play catch-up netball once again. The Comets were quick to take control of the match during the opening quarter, with the combination of Aitaua Enari and Sloan Burton dominating in the goal circle to score 21-11 by quarter-time. While the Jets strived to put the pressure on and keep up with the Comets, they found themselves overwhelmed by the home side’s defence, scoring only eight goals for the second term to trail by 14 goals at half-time. The Jets showed glimmers of hope throughout the second half as they looked to put up a strong finish to their season, but the Comets were already on their way towards sealing the win. Despite an impressive showing during the final term, it was too little too late for the Jets, who went down 44-67. The Jets’ shooters were kept uncharacteristically quiet due to the immense pressure by the Comets’ defenders, with Giselle Taylor racking up 14 goals and Marene Peyper managing 13 goals. Meanwhile, the Jets’ 20 and under squad also struggled to get in front of the Comets, falling short 62-41. While the Jets put up solid showings during the first and third quarters, the Comets put their foot down in the final term, scoring 19-8 to seal the win and a spot in the finals. Annie Chomley was the highest scorer for the Jets, racking up 23 goals, followed by Grace Millichamp with 18.