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Blockbuster clashes with finals ramifications headline MNL action

Finals threats: Echuca United's Aisha Railton will be hoping her side can hand Deniliquin its first loss for the season when they meet this weekend. Photo by Megan Fisher

The Murray Netball League is heating up as finals creep ever closer, with ladder positions not yet locked away ahead of finals.

While Deniliquin is basically assured of top position, being two games clear with two rounds to play, the rest of the top six is still subject to change.

Tongala is still well placed with 14 wins in second, although Rumbalara is now just one game behind (13-3), the only side that can steal the double chance away from the Blues.

Mulwala sits fourth (11-5), and while it will be unable to claim a top-two position, it can still take third away from Rumbalara, as can Echuca United (11-5) who sits equal on wins with the Lions in fifth.

Moama currently occupies sixth spot (10-6), one game clear of Congupna in seventh (9-7), the only side currently outside the top six that can sneak into the finals.

The match-ups this weekend will be crucial in sorting the pecking order ahead of the September action, with some blockbuster clashes on the cards.

Moama continues its tough run home, hosting yet another top-four side in Rumbalara, with the outcome pivotal for both sides.

If Moama loses, it could see itself slip outside the top six depending on Congupna’s result against Barooga, although a win would ensure it is in the box seat to secure a finals spot.

For Rumbalara, a win will mean it remains a chance of a second-placed finish, however a loss will ensure it will be contesting the finals without a double chance if the Blues beat Numurkah.

The other top-four clash this week will see Echuca United take the trip out to Deniliquin to take on the undefeated Rams.

The Eagles will play finals this season barring a disaster, however the side will no doubt want to finish with as many wins as possible to give itself the best chance come the first elimination match, given it cannot finish in the top-two.

Third is within the realms of possibility for the side that has proven it can mix it with the best, however it will need to win both remaining games, starting with Deni, while also relying on other results.

Moama will host Rumbalara at Moama Recreation Reserve, while Echuca United will be playing Deniliquin at the Hardinge St courts, with both matches scheduled for a 1.30pm start.