CENTRAL Mallee’s round nine will feature some ripper matches as the footballers and netballers celebrate a combined headspace and Pride Round.
A return to the original round seven matches will see some tight games – particularly as first placed Balranald head to Lalbert for a showdown against second-placed Mallee Eagles.
Both teams are undefeated, with the Eagles having had their bye and therefore one less match so far. Both teams have performed exceptionally this season, breaking the trend of Woorinen, Swan Hill and Tyntynder domination of recent years.
Balranald playing-coach Jess Parry said she has been really happy with how the team is progressing and is excited to see how much more they can improve over the coming weeks.
“Our defensive end have been really impressive the past couple of weeks but our ability to come back from behind to win games has been a real team effort and something we haven’t been very good at it in the past so it’s really exciting to see,” Parry said.
Parry herself is always an asset as GA, while young gun Ella Mirtschin in WA is sure to bring her best match.
It’s tough to pick a stand out for the Balranald side, but their defensive players are always superb. Elli-Jane Brougham in GK adds some enviable height and is always there for the rebound or intercept, while GD Stevie Bibby also provides tough opposition for any shooter. They will have their work cut out for them with the impressive attacking skills of GS Kellie Walker and GA Emelia Bett.
But, as they managed against Woorinen’s GS Renee Isma earlier this season, the Roos may be able to defensively target the Eagles’ key shooter Walker and keep her score down.
Of course, GA Emelia Bett’s speed and agility are always useful in goals and she makes plenty of opportunities, but Walker is more often than not the player who shoots the ball through the ring.
Balranald benefits from a selection of shooters so while Jess Parry is always strong, Madison Jess and Ella Mirtschin also shoot quite a number of goals, with less pressure on one player.
But the impressive Mallee Eagles will be prepared, fresh off a strong win against third on the ladder and 2019 premiers Woorinen, displaying their skill against a very solid team.
Kellie Walker was best on, with strong defensive work from Meg Allen and Kyra Bennett who managed to keep the notoriously accurate Tigers’ shooter Isma below her typical score.
Again, it is difficult to choose a highlight from this team, with this weekend’s sides a testament to the quality of the competition. You can almost guarantee both these teams will make it to the finals, with a premiership on the cards.
Another big match this weekend will be Woorinen v Swan Hill in a 2019 grand final rematch. Although they are now third and fourth on the ladder respectively, they are still offering up quality netball.
It is sure to be an exciting display and it is anyone’s match as both have five wins and two losses in the season so far.
Cohuna Kangas will have a bye, while Kerang play Koondrook/Barham, Tyntynder verse Nyah Nyah West United and Tooleybuc Manangatang will battle it out against Lake Boga.
While Tyntynder will be strong opposition for United, the remaining matches are set to be close – with teams up against their neighbours on the competitive ladder.
Whatever the result, it will be a fantastic opportunity for the league to celebrate the LGBTIQA+ athletes and volunteers who take to the court each week, while also promoting headspace and other mental health services in the community to keep locals happy and healthy on court and off.
