While it wasn’t quite the top-three scalp Tongala A-grade netball coach Paige Wade was after, the Blues’ 36-36 draw against Nathalia showed they are well and truly a Murray Netball League force in 2022.
In a thrilling contest from beginning to end, Tongala took it up to the Purples every step of the way, not giving them an inch in what was an epic defensive battle.
Determined to make amends from their eight-goal loss to Nathalia back in round three, it appeared the Blues would get their sweet revenge as they led by two heading into the final term.
But one last Nathalia push evened the scores and the siren sounded with the ball on the edge of the Purples’ attacking circle.
Despite only leaving Nathalia Recreation Reserve with two points, Wade said she was incredibly proud of her team’s efforts.
“It was a very tight game throughout and obviously at the end there was a bit of a numb feeling, but in the end we were happy with the result,” Wade said.
“I was really happy with how the girls fought back after being down a bit early. We changed up our game a bit at quarter-time to counter what is quite an athletic Nathalia team.
“To their credit, the girls did that (changed the game style) really well, and having such a young team it shows we are well and truly on the right track.”
The Blues sported a number of solid contributors and Wade highlighted two players in particular that played star roles in the draw.
“Rose Hammond got our best playing wing defence. She provides a lot of ball and was very disciplined in looking after the ball,” she said.
“Abbey Nexhip was also excellent for us all day in goal attack, who assists Milly (Brock) and she once again did a really good job of that.
“Jemma Brennan in defence was excellent as well.
“The win certainly gives us some confidence that we are not far off.
“Given earlier in the season when we played them we lost by eight goals, to come and be able to draw with them shows that our hard work is starting to pay off and hopefully now we can keep on the improve.”
Around the courts, Rumbalara continued its golden patch of form, easily accounting for top-six contender Mulwala 41-21.
Still one win behind ladder-leader Deniliquin Rams, Jess Bamblett’s team faces another tough test next weekend, as it welcomes Nathalia for a blockbuster second v third clash.
Cobram claimed its second win of the season, besting fierce rival Barooga 38-25 in a tight battle across the NSW border.
Congupna rejoined the A-grade winners’ list with a comfortable 51-25 win over cellar-dweller Numurkah.
Deniliquin Rams continued their unbeaten start to the season, destroying Finley 58-39 away from home.