THE Mallee Eagles continued their winning start to 2025 with a hard-fought nine-goal win over a much-improved Koondrook-Barham on the weekend.
After a tight first half, the Eagles took control after the main break, outscoring the Raiders 22-15 to record a 43-34 victory and retain retain a place in the top two.
Mallee Eagles co-coach Alicia Harvey was happy to walk away from the contest with the four points, with Koondrook-Barham also impressing.
“It was our toughest game yet and credit to Koondrook-Barham, they are a well-drilled side and considering all the new faces they have this year, they seemed to have gelled really well,” Harvey said.
It was a physical match and they (Koondrook-Barham) made us work really hard to get the four points and I think they have a really good shot at being a finals contender this year.
“We built some momentum late in the third term and capitalised on that, our full court defensive pressure is what got us over the line with every player on the court getting an intercept at some point in the second half.”
Midcourters Lily Brennan and Kasey Torr were among the Eagles better players, with Shanae Haw and Remy Doyle the best for the Raiders.
While disappointed not to maintain their winning start to the season, Koondrook-Barham co-coach Emma Peacock was impressed with her team’s effort against a side many consider favourites to win this year’s title.
“We were happy with our game, the girls played really well,” Peacock said post-match.
“It was a great competition with them (Mallee Eagles) and we had great match-ups throughout the court.
“Our offence is really coming together and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the season has to offer.”
Final Whistle
Mallee Eagles 43
Koondrook-Barham 34
