Rochester came home hard in its round three Goulburn Valley League clash against Echuca, but the Murray Bombers’ mix of youth and experience helped them walk away with a thrilling three-goal win at Moon Oval.
Echuca led by as much as 14 goals at half-time before the Tigers staged a mighty comeback, drawing within two goals at one stage in the fourth quarter.
The Murray Bombers held strong to record a 49-46 win, but coach Belinda Lees conceded it was a “nervy” finish.
“We had quite a convincing lead at half-time and we let it slip going into the third,” Lees said.
“I was pleased with the girls to be able to withstand the onslaught from Rochester and hold on for the win.
“Every week the young girls are improving and stepping up.
“It will be a continual work in progress and figuring out what works best for us.”
Experienced trio Steph Vick, Ash Mangan and Lauren Pryde led the way for Echuca, while young goal shooter Jorja Oliver continued her bright start to A-grade netball life.
“Steph, Ash and Lauren really stood up for us, especially when it was tight,” Lees said.
“Jorja Oliver in goal shooter was excellent, she’s really consolidating her spot there.
“As a coach, that’s what you want to see, the young girls implementing what they’re building on at training.
Tigers coach Rachel Whipp credited her side’s resolve to wrench itself back into the contest, led by an inspired Ava Cottom.
“We were a bit erratic in the first half, but once we settled we were great,” Whipp said.
“It was a good learning game, we’re still a young group and Echuca have some good experience.”
“Ava played a great game, she forced some turnovers and her drive down the court was great.”