The Eagles have knocked off Euroa and Benalla in consecutive weeks to move to 2-2 and sixth on the table, but the Demons’ form has been something else, winning each of their four games.
They did what they had to do in a 16-goal win against Mooroopna on Anzac Day and are one of just two remaining undefeated teams along with Echuca.
But Mansfield coach Emily Hutchins told the club’s ‘‘Coaching Eagles’’ segment the gutsy five-goal win against Benalla showed the side’s young core was growing in leaps and bounds.
‘‘To our girls’ credit, we stuck at it, dominating the play in bursts,’’ she said.
‘‘However, we allowed them to stay within arms reach, down by three points at three-quarter-time.
‘‘We needed a big last term and it was amazing to see the girls fight for the win. They played the composed netball we are striving to produce consistently.
‘‘To win by five, in such a tight contest really shows the growth this team.’’
Against United, Hutchins suggested her team’s main focuses would be playing their structures against the Demons’ strong defence, while maintaining their own defensive presence across the court.
●Echuca will be confident its own hot form should ensure it takes care of Benalla.
The Murray Bombers won well against Kyabram last round with Tamara Nicholls, Claudia Mawson and Holly Butler standing out, while Benalla could not get the job done against Mansfield.
Kyabram will be keen to address its stuttering season when it travels to face Euroa.
The Bombers won in round one, but have not done so since, with a draw and two losses in the past three weeks.
Elle Groves, Ash Mangan and Emma Ryan performed against Echuca and will look to do the same against winless Euroa.
Mooroopna will enter its game with Tatura confident of a win, with the Bulldogs yet to find a win this season.
The Cats fought brilliantly against Shepparton United before falling away late, but could be back in the top six with a good win tomorrow.
And Rochester is riding a three-game undefeated streak into a big-time game with the Shepparton Swans.
The Tigers pipped Tatura by one goal last weekend, but will need to find another gear to beat the Swans, who took care of Shepparton by 12 goals.
