Rumbalara punches ticket to the Murray Netball League big dance while Tongala ousts Nathalia

By Liam Nash

Sep 8, 2024

Sarah Thorpe and her Rumbalara teammates have book a spot in the Murray Netball League grand final. Photo by Megan Fisher

Only one game now separates Rumbalara from Murray Netball League fame.

Rumbalara’s Sophie Atkinson and Moama’s Abby Larkin jostle for space. Photo by Megan Fisher

Up against Moama in Saturday’s semi final, Rumbalara rocked and rolled to an 11-goal win on home court to ensure it will be in attendance on the league’s day of days.

Rumbalara’s Jessie Barnes-Hill scans ahead for a free pass. Photo by Megan Fisher

Moama’s Olivia Taverna goes shoulder to shoulder with Rumbalara’s Yilanii Atkinson. Photo by Megan Fisher

Ironically, the 2024 grand final venue is Moama.

Moama’s Pip Metcalfe wins the ball back for the Magpies in defence. Photo by Megan Fisher

And despite falling 55-44 at the weekend, the Magpies can still book a home rematch with Rumbalara - but they’ll need their A-game after dropping the ball following a strong first term.

Rumbalara’s Tiarna Steel takes time to measure her pass. Photo by Megan Fisher

Moama eked out a 14-11 advantage at quarter time, but Rumbalara, undefeated all season with only a clerical error robbing them of a flawless home and away campaign, stirred to life.

Rumbalara’s Emily Williams readies to launch a rocket pass forward. Photo by Megan Fisher

Moama’s Lisa Drysdale gets on the run. Photo by Megan Fisher

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Rumbalara’s Sophie Atkinson and Moama’s Abby Larkin jostle for space. Photo by Megan Fisher

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Rumbalara’s Jessie Barnes-Hill scans ahead for a free pass. Photo by Megan Fisher

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Moama’s Olivia Taverna goes shoulder to shoulder with Rumbalara’s Yilanii Atkinson. Photo by Megan Fisher

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Moama’s Pip Metcalfe wins the ball back for the Magpies in defence. Photo by Megan Fisher

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Rumbalara’s Tiarna Steel takes time to measure her pass. Photo by Megan Fisher

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Rumbalara’s Emily Williams readies to launch a rocket pass forward. Photo by Megan Fisher

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Moama’s Lisa Drysdale gets on the run. Photo by Megan Fisher

Jess Bamblett’s charges tugged back to lead by six goals at the main change of ends, and the buffer remained the same with one quarter left to play.

From there, Moama put 11 goals on the board but Rumbalara upped the ante with 15, securing a week off to plan and prepare for the grand final while the Magpies will suit up for battle in the looming preliminary final.

Olivia Taverna’s side will do battle with Tongala after the Blues ended Nathalia’s season prematurely in Sunday’s second semi final.

The Blues led at every change an eventually upended the Purples 36-32, ensuring their season stays alive another week.

Barooga will host the prelim on Saturday, slated for a 1:30pm start.