Theodora Miaoudis pulled on the guernsey for the Bendigo Pioneers, and Mikayla Jones, Lily Sharp and Hayley Doohan were part of the Murray Bushrangers side.
The Pioneers lost to Greater Western Victoria Rebels in a five point thriller at Craigieburn.
The Rebels started stronger and despite a comeback by the Pioneers, it wasn’t enough to get over the line.
There was a strong wind blowing across Rams Oval and some poor decisions in the first quarter cost Bendigo valuable points.
Coach Shawn McCormick said Miaoudis played well in the first match.
She was selected to play with the Pioneers after initially missing out with the Murray Bushrangers.
McCormick said Miaoudis’ performance on Saturday justified his decision, describing her as a ‘‘handy player’’ who is keen to improve her skills.
‘‘I took one look at her and knew she was what we needed,’’ McCormick said.
‘‘She works well with the ball, and without the ball she knows what to do in terms of defending.
‘‘We played a practice match against the Bushrangers and she was easily among our top three players.’’
Due to a general bye, Bendigo’s will next play Eastern Ranges on March 16 in Bendigo.
The Murray Bushrangers suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of the Northern Knights in Craigieburn on Saturday.
The Knights showed no mercy winning by 76 points.
The Bushrangers play their first home game at J.C. Lowe Oval in Yarrawonga in round two. They play Western Jets on Sunday, March 17.
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