Up in the air: Players fly for the ball in a thrilling Murray Netball League encounter between Echuca United and Mulwala. Photo: Steve Huntley
Photo by
Steve Huntley
Echuca United came close to knocking off finals-bound Mulwala on Saturday, but the Lions held their nerve at the Eagles’ nest to steal a narrow Murray Netball League win.
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United, three goals down with two minutes to play, made a last-gasp effort to chase down the Lions before the siren beat it to the punch, falling 44-43.
Under pressure: Echuca United's Jessica Saunders takes possession of the ball.
Photo by
Steve Huntley
With a confirmed ticket to finals on the line for Mulwala, the Lions came out roaring, but the Eagles’ determination saw them go goal-for-goal with the visitors for most of the contest.
Trailing by three goals heading into the final quarter, the Eagles piled on the first four goals before the classy Lions fetched back the lead, holding on to it from there to claim their eighth win of the year.
Tilly Keenan, Hayley Saville and Jess Saunders led the way for the Eagles.
The win for Mulwala all but finalises the Murray Netball League A-grade top six for 2022.
Passing time: Echuca United's Jessica Saunders passes to a teammate.
Photo by
Steve Huntley
This came after seventh-placed Finley was smashed by Nathalia 45-17 on its home court, leaving it now two games and percentage out of the top six with just a pair of games remaining.
The victory gives the Purples a one-win buffer over Moama in third place, with the pair set to do battle in what is setting up to be an intriguing round 17 clash over the border at Moama Recreation Reserve.
Making moves: Echuca United's Remi Day looks to start an attack.
Photo by
Steve Huntley
The final match of the split round saw Cobram destroy a hapless Numurkah 72-29.
Heading down to Numurkah for the clash with the Murray League cellar-dweller, the Tigers were on from the first whistle, dominating every aspect of the game.
Defensive duties: Echuca United's Elle Molluso looks to pass the ball.
Photo by
Steve Huntley
Cobram’s fourth win of the year, the result lifts it over Echuca United and into 10th spot on the ladder, as it hopes to finish its season with a pair of competitive performances against the finals bound Tongala and Deniliquin Rams.
Numurkah on the other hand appears destined for a winless season, with matches against the ladder-leading Rams and a finely tuned Moama to finish its campaign.
