Stratford and Lucknow were the big winners in round six of East Gippsland netball last weekend, with the top four sides drawn against each other.
The unbeaten Magpies were challenged by Boisdale Briagolong but were just too steady, making fewer mistakes in their 51-43 win.
Given only eight points separated the top and fourth-ranked teams, the league looks set for an exciting culmination to the season.
Ashley Coates, Hayley Escudero and Erica Lynch were dynamite for Lucknow, while Ash McDonough, Ciara Fitt and Abbey Pleydell all battled hard for the Bombers against a quality foe.
Stratford jumped a place on the ladder at the expense of Wy Yung, defeating the Tigers 57-45 at Boyd Reserve.
Lilli Stobie and Mel Tatterson led the way in a brilliant team performance from the Swans, eclipsing the gallant Tigers, who will return to the drawing board for inspiration. Katelyn Van Doeselaar led the way for the Tigers.
Fifth-placed Lindenow now sits a game above sixth-placed Orbost Snowy Rovers after a hard-fought 45-37 victory at Lochiel Park.
Brily White and Ash Smith were in great touch for the winners, while Hayley Boxall and Tamara Heyne tried their hardest to inspire their opponents back into the contest after the Cats gained a vital break.
Lakes Entrance won its second match of the season, overcoming the winless Paynesville 44-27 at Freeman Reserve.
Tommi Carroll was a clear best on court for the winners, who are hopeful that the victory and confidence gained might lead to more wins in the coming weeks. Emily Hall and Lucy Weston tried hard for the Gulls, who played some good team netball in passages but lacked the poise of the Seagulls.
This week’s round sees the top four playing the bottom four. With no upsets looking likely, it indicates the top four already looks settled.
