Tongala has continued its winning ways in the Murray league A-grade netball competition, pulling away in the final quarter to record a 53 to 42 win over a resilient Moama side.
One of only three undefeated sides left in A-grade, Tongala was pushed all game by the Magpies, with constant lead changes throughout, although proved too strong when the game was on the line, according to Moama coach Jodie Lake.
“It was a really good, even contest for three quarters,” she said.
“The lead chopped and changed all game, until Tongala found another gear in the final and managed to win by 11.”
Despite the scoreline blowing out slightly at the end, Lake was happy with how the team performed, linking up well on the court and ensuring the Blues earnt the win.
“The score unfortunately didn't reflect the game,” Lake said.
“It was a really even contest all over the court and I was really happy with how we connected and played as a team.
The strong performance from all players was highlighted in the selection of the best on court awards, with Lake struggling to choose a clear winner.
“It was really hard to pick our best on, but it went to Steph Langdon and Abby Larkin, who more than proved she is A grade worthy,” she said.
The recognition for Larkin comes in her first start with the A-grade side, made all the more impressive by the fact she has made the jump straight up to the top senior grade from the under-17’s squad.
Moama now holds a record of one win and two losses, and will have the chance to regroup this weekend when it has the bye.
Tongala will face what looks to be an improved Cobram side from last year when they square off in round four, with the clash at home for the Blues.
Elsewhere in A-grade, Cobram was too good for Tocumwal, winning 40 to 32, while Mulwala accounted for Barooga by 42 goals in the 56 to 14 thumping, keeping its unbeaten start on track with the biggest winning margin in the round three.
Deniliquin travelled to Numurkah to hand the Blues their first loss of the season and preserve its own perfect record, claiming a 52 to 32 win, and Rumbalara opened its account for season 2023 with a 53 to 30 win over Congupna.
Nathalia denied Finley its first win of the season, sealing a comfortable 51 to 27 victory away from home.
Echuca United had the bye.