AN 18-goal to eight third quarter has helped Kerang remain in the hunt for a top three finish, with the Blues claiming a heart-stopping one-goal win over Tooleybuc-Manangatang on the weekend.
The third term proved to be the pivotal stanza in the 45-44 victory for the Blues, who remain second on the ladder in their three-way battle for a top three finish with Woorinen and Koondrook-Barham.
The result also has significant finals ramifications for Tooleybuc-Manangatang who are also in a three-way battle of their own against Cohuna and Swan Hill for fifth spot, with the Saints needing to win at least two of their final three matches.
It was the Blues’ fourth close finish in a row, with their past month all finishing with a margin of three goals or less.
Tooleybuc-Manangatang had their chances to win and in fact took the lead late in the final quarter, before Kerang responded with goal shooter Denise Roberts scoring three of the last four goals of the match, including the go ahead goal in the dying seconds.
It was a win of grit and resilience according to Kerang coach Chloe Adams, who was impressed with her team’s ability to close out the match when challenged.
“It was a really great game, they (Tooleybuc-Manangatang) were really strong and hungry for it so we were happy to come away with the win,” Adams said.
“While we were disappointed to lose the eight-goal lead we had going into the last quarter, I was super happy that we kept our heads when it mattered as that’s something we’ve been focusing on, being able to keep our heads and stay composed when the pressure is on.
“I was really happy to see that happen on Saturday.
“We were able to win a fair bit of the ball defensively and were hungry for loose balls which really helped give us momentum and we were able to capitalise on those in the last few minutes.”
The three-quarter time turnaround from the Saints was prompted by a change up front, with Jayda Plant slotting into goal attack alongside Zoe Morris, with Eden Hoare moving into the centre.
Although disappointed not to get the four points, Tooleybuc-Manangatang coach Mel Wait was still pleased with the effort of her team after the match.
“It was a really good game, but we just had a lapse about half-way through the third quarter and let them get away unfortunately,” Wait said.
“We made the switch at three-quarter time with Jayda playing goals and Jayda and Zoe were both very good in that final quarter.
“Everyone actually played their role all over the court and our defence was very strong also.”
Plant and Morris were among the Saints’ better players for the day, while Katelyn Wright, Bree Cordina and Madi Hall were the best for Kerang.
FINAL WHISTLE
| KERANG | 45 |
|---|---|
| TOOLEYBUC-MANANGANTANG | 44 |
