Mooroopna was dealt a double blow on Saturday after its perfect win-loss record and hold on top spot evaporated following a surprise loss to Echuca.
The Cats were the sole unbeaten team in the Goulburn Valley League’s A-grade competition, but their eight-game winning streak came to an end after the Murray Bombers claimed an impressive 12-goal victory.
A barnstorming third quarter was the key for Echuca on its home court at Victoria Park, with the bottle greens earning a stellar 55-43 result.
“I think we just turned up to play, to be honest,” Echuca coach Belinda Lees said.
“We played with freedom and everyone played their role. We weren’t overawed by the contest before the game started.
“Sheridan Townrow played a real team game in goal shooter. Ash Mangan and Lauren Pryde stood up defensively for us as they always do.”
As befitting a contest between two of the top six sides, the Cats and Murray Bombers battled out a tight first half.
Echuca opened up a four-goal lead at quarter-time, but the visiting Cats were able to cut the deficit to two at half-time.
But the third quarter proved to be the difference as the Murray Bombers finally cracked the game wide open.
Their advantage grew from two to a handful and then out to double digits as Echuca’s pressure had it capitalise on the scoreboard and win the quarter 18-6.
While Mooroopna did its best to rally in the final term the Murray Bombers had all the answers, keeping the Cats at bay to prevail by 12.
After a topsy-turvy start to the season, Lees said the win showcased what Echuca had to offer when everything clicked into place.
“I think our best will beat anybody, it’s just a matter of being consistent,” she said.
“We certainly have the belief that when we combine like that, we’ll be able to get over the top of anyone.”
It was a tough day at the office for Mooroopna, a side that is now dealing with a growing injury list.
Star goaler Dayna Williams was out of the line-up on Saturday and will miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery following an ACL injury.
Sisters Ella Ogier and Jenna Ogier are also on the sidelines as they too are working to overcome injuries.
Having been on top of the ladder for almost the entire season, Saturday’s defeat means Mooroopna has slipped out of top spot.
The Cats are now second on the ladder behind Euroa, but ahead of Tatura, with only percentage separating the three sides.
For the Murray Bombers, the win solidifies their spot in fifth, with Echuca holding a six-point advantage over seventh-placed Rochester.