The Federation University Pride girls couldn’t overcome the early 16-9 margin, eventually going down to the Yarra Valley Grammar Ariels 58-44 at the State Netball and Hockey Centre on Wednesday night.

Ballarat coach Jo Dash lamented the slow start, saying her team matched the Ariels for the remaining three terms.

“Pride players sustained their efforts for more of the match and as such were far more competitive,” Dash said.

Ariels prevailed 54-40 in division one and 55-30 in the 19/unders.

Dash said an injury to Pride centre-court player Maddie Gay was a turning point in the 19/unders clash as it forced early changes, which seemed to unbalance the team.

She said Ashlea Melnikas was creative, strong and hard-working through the mid-court as a result.

Pride now prepares for round five fixtures against Monash University Storm next Wednesday night.

RESULTS

CHAMPIONSHIP

Ariels 16 28 44 58 d Pride 9 20 32 44

Pride shooting: Birgitta Nemaric 33/41 (81%), Laura Mcdonald 7/16 (44%), Cindy Daniel 4/5 (80%).

DIVISION 1

Ariels 16 31 47 54 d Pride 9 18 31 40

Pride shooting: Deanne Tuppen 30/41 (74%), Chelsea Ross 10/15 (67%), Tara Fisher 0/1 (0%)

19/UNDER

Ariels 10 28 44 55 d Pride 9 14 23 30

Pride shooting: Katharine Dicker 17/24 (71%), Hayley Fidler 11/16 (69%), Ruby Rose Parry 2/3 (67%)