LAKE BOGA have cemented their position as one of the top teams in this year’s Central Murray netball competition after beating reigning premiers Balranald at the weekend.
Balranald’s playing coach Jess Parry told The Guardian earlier in the week how she and her team were feeling “prepared” to take on what they knew would be a strong Lake Boga side. But an injury to Roos goal keeper Elli-Jane Brougham in the first quarter of the match threw the team’s game plan into turmoil, forcing Parry to try different combinations to try and hold off the Magpies.
“We had to change a few positions around to try and match the height of Lake Boga’s goalies,” Parry said.
“Credit to the girls for fighting to stay in the game, but unfortunately a couple of errors at crucial times cost us the win.”
The Roos started strongly, leading by three goals at the first break. But the unexpected departure of Brougham began to be felt in the second quarter, with the Pies able to take the lead by a goal at half-time.
The Roos deficit continued to grow from there as the Magpies’ confidence continued to build.
The Magpies’ sister shooting duo of Sarah and Katie Hepburn were unstoppable in the goal ring, shooting with accuracy and working hard to get around their defenders.
Lake Boga now sits in second position on the Central Murray A Grade ladder, while Balranald have dropped to fifth.
Both teams are set to have very competitive matches in round 6, with Lake Boga hosting Woorinen, while Balranald travel to Kerang to take on the current ladder leaders.
FINAL WHISTLE:
Balranald 44
Lake Boga 47
