The win pushes the Eagles’ winning streak out to six games, with the side undefeated since the bye in round three.
United co-coaches Kate Donehue and Asher Arnel have now coached four wins from the four games they have been in charge, although the triumph over the Purples was a tight affair, according to Donehue.
“We managed to get the win against a tough Nathalia outfit,” she said.
“From the first whistle we were evenly matched. The second half saw us play our game and we were able to hold on to our lead.”
It was a solid showing from the defensive end, which came up against some in-form shooters, although the best-on-court honours went to a midcourter who Donehue said played a “strong and smart game”.
“Our defenders were super against very accurate goalies,” she said.
“Emily Cossar earned herself best-on for her strong and smart game through the midcourt.”
The win ensures the Eagles remain in fourth spot on the ladder, maintaining a one-game gap over fifth-placed Moama (5-3), who also recorded a victory in round nine. Third-placed Mulwala (7-1) is a game ahead of United.
A seventh win in a row beckons next week for the Eagles, who play Tocumwal at home. The Bloods are yet to register a win this season, sitting one place above the bottom due to their superior percentage over Barooga.