Only two sides remain unbeaten after dramatic round three of East Gippsland netball, but only just.
The top four has a familiar look with Boisdale Briagolong and Lucknow sitting pretty ahead of reigning premier, Orbost Snowy Rovers, who got their season back on track, with Wy Yung occupying fourth spot and definitely looking a premiership contender.
Even at this early stage, Stratford look the only possible finals contender and it will have its work cut out.
In the match of the round, the Erica Lynch-led Lucknow at home scrambled over the line in an outstanding match by a solitary goal over a gallant Wy Yung, 38-37.
The match was fitting of a high ranking final, with both sides stoic in defence and if it’s any indication of what’s to come when the big four clash, it will be a cracking season.
The match could quite easily have gone the way of the Tigers.
Boisdale Briagolong outclassed Paynesville by 70 goals, with Emily Porter and Paige Morris outstanding, the Gulls naming Teneill Walker, Paige Strickland-Cohen and Nyla Rabbitt in their best, but they were no match for their more experienced opponents.
Orbost is now two wins from three matches, proving too strong down the stretch for Lindenow, who look more than capable of causing some upsets as the season progresses.
Jorja Savory and Hayley Boxall were both standouts for the Blues, while Brooke Perrett, Alana Websdale and Briely Wight showed plenty of promise for the Cats.
In this week’s round of matches, Lindenow again face a tough assignment, welcoming the Tigers to the Cattery.
The winless Paynesville and Lakes Entrance will be both be keen to break the duck at AJ Freeman Reserve in Paynesville while Stratford will be looking to stay in touch with the top four when they do battle with Orbost Snowy Rovers at the John Boyd Recreation Reserve.
