The result was a resounding 30-goal loss and rough introduction to Victorian Netball League championship division for UB Pride’s newcomers.

A tighter, more experienced Yarra Valley Grammar stamped control with a 17-6 first quarter in the opening round clash at the State Netball Hockey Centre.

While Pride refused to give in, the deficit proved too great to reel in.

Pride captain Johanna Dash had plenty of bite with seven intercepts at wing defence but troubles in transition allowed the Ariels to dominate.

Quarter-by-quarter the match slipped further from Pride’s grasp, 58-28.

Pride coach Daniel Cooke said the match, and trying new combinations, had definitely given him plenty to mull over in the 10-day break to Pride’s next outing.

“We let them (Ariels) off to a flyer,” Cooke said.

“The girls did a pretty good job and created a lot of turnover chances but did not give ourselves enough opportunity to convert.

“We had hands to a lot of ball but threw it away and didn’t cherish possession enough to keep it.”

Cooke was impressed with his players’ positive attitude and willingness to improve.

Young gun Jordyn Bibby made her championship debut in the second half.

Bibby shot 12 goals at 85.7 per cent accuracy while still adjusting to the closer physical check of championship defenders and her own attacking timing.

Camperdown defender Emma Wright stopped a lot of high ball in her VNL debut in a solid circle combination with Ingrid Hopkins and Danni Davidson.

• 19/UNDERS

INTENSE defensive pressure built Ballarat Pride 19/unders a five-goal win against traditional heavyweight Yarra Valley last night.

UB Pride coach Kerry Lightfoot said her team had focused on a sharp start for the late 9.40pm time slot.

Pride came out firing in an 11-7 opening quarter and held the buffer.

Play grew physical through the second half and the Ariels clawed within two goals but Pride called for fresh legs in the centre-court and kept Ariels at bay.

Goalers Brylee Schache and Laura McDonald shot soundly under close check while new defender Ellie McDonald held her own alongside captain Emma Ryan in the circle against tall, strong Ariels goalers.