Close games featured in Wimmera league A Grade netball on the weekend, with the highlights a draw between Dimboola and Nhill, while Horsham Demons upset ladder-leaders Horsham Saints.

Playing at home on Saturday, Dimboola jumped out to a two-goal lead at quarter time before the Tigers had a stellar second term, scoring 18 goals to the Roos’ 11.

Leading by five at half time, Nhill, through centre Ellen Bennett and goal attack Claudia McRae, were a tough challenge for Dimboola, who got back on track in the third term to wrestle back a two-goal lead.

It was anyone’s game in last quarter, with Roos’ midcourt player Paige Glover and goal keeper Bridget Dorrington impressing.

But neither of the two sides, who sit third and fourth on the ladder – only separated by percentage – could gain the ascendency, resulting in a 49-all draw.

Dimboola, missing coach Ash Morrish and Stephanie Glover, were pleased to snare the draw as goal shooter Nicole Polycarpou nailed a shot with seconds to spare. 

Sunday’s clash of the titans – Horsham Saints and Demons – drew a large crowd at Coughlin Park, ready to be entertained by the region’s elite netballers.

The visitors started strongly, out to a 14-8 lead in the first quarter and never looked back.

Led by Keely Pope in wing defence and goal shooter Imogen Worthy, who shot a game-high 34 goals, the Demons were impressive, gaining revenge on their cross-town rival.

With young star goaler Jorja Clode out injured, the Saints were well served by replacement goal shooter Taya Quick, with 20 goals, and defender Elly Barnett. 

Following the 13-goal win to the Demons, they now take top place on the A Grade ladder – on the same points but with a better percentage than the reigning premiers.

The Saints should be back on the winners’ list after this weekend, when they play Warrack Eagles, while Horsham is expected to win when its hosts Minyip-Murtoa. 

The Eagles are coming off a 44-37 goal win against Ararat in another close match. The young Rats were just one goal down at half time, but the Eagles slowly edged out the margin to lead by two at the last break, before a last quarter lift bumped the margin out to seven goals.

Ararat now face Southern Mallee Thunder, who are coming off the bye. 

Meanwhile, Stawell held onto fifth spot on the ladder following a 10-goal win against Minyip-Murtoa.

The two sides couldn’t be separated at quarter time, 13 goals apiece, before Stawell went into the main break to lead 29-27.

With Madi Taylor moving into centre and Jemma Clarkson to wing attack, the Warriors came out firing after half time to lead by eight goals at three-quarter time.

Co-captain Ebony Summers, in goal attack with 29 goals, and wing defender Rachel Wood were judged Stawell’s best, while the Burras’ standout players were defenders Lauren Dodgshun and Johanna Griffiths.

In what is expected to be a tough encounter, Stawell will play Dimboola on Saturday.

– Lauren Henry

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