Falcons fight hard but fall short of bringing down Aztecs as Kazuals brush off Lightning

It may be a new year but the 2023 netball season is already starting to shape up like last year’s as Kazuals and Aztecs look to be the top two again. Aztecs haven’t lost a game in more than two years and they weren’t about to start this week as they defeated the Falcons 45-39. Despite the result it was a much improved performance from the Falcons, who went winless last year and in their two previous meetings with Aztecs lost by a combined 139-62. They hung in there with the reigning premiers and it was just the second time they’ve finished inside a 10-goal margin since 2021. Aztecs were below their best but still had more than enough to get the job done. Falcons could take heart from the performance, which suggests a breakthrough win may be possible. Kazuals confirmed they are the second best in the competition, easily accounting for the Lightning 65-47. They were always in control against the Lightning and have the best chance of stopping the almighty Aztecs once again. Next week Falcons will take on the Lightning, while Pumas face Kazuals.