Bairnsdale’s “A” grade Gippsland League netball finals hopes, like the senior football team’s, barely has a pulse.
The Redlegs suffered a heart-breaking four-goal round 16 defeat at the hands of Wonthaggi last Saturday, despite being even with the Power at half time, the home side edged two goals clear in each of the third and fourth quarters to record victory.
It means Bairnsdale is placed precariously in sixth place, six points outside fifth-placed Traralgon with two rounds remaining.
Fortunately for the Redlegs they face Leongatha and Sale in the final two rounds who are behind them in the ladder.
Ruby Dunkley and shooters Anna Mooney (25 goals) and Sally Deller (15) the best players.
The “B” grade Redlegs went down by 20 goals and remain at the bottom of the ladder. Dimity Harris, Sophie Bills and Olivia Rees were the team’s best.
“C” grade suffered a 13-goal loss and its finals hopes are now gone. Jasmine Kazakas, Brooke Soulsby and Mikayla Shaw were named in the best.
The under 17 girls remain in third spot after a disappointing three-goal loss in a match where the margin was no bigger than that throughout.
The Redlegs are finals bound however will be keen to get back on the winners’ list. Mia Ballinger, Rose Langley and Eve Sabell were the better performers.
The top of the ladder under 15 team cruised to a 31-goal victory. The Redlegs dominated every quarter, opening up a nine-goal break at quarter time and never looking back.
Chloe Allen, Olivia Pearson (19 goals) and Tahlia Chila were named in the best while Ava Langley shot 36 goals.
Bairnsdale’s under 13s held Wonthaggi to four first-half goals as they recorded a 25-goal win.
They are placed sixth and must win the final two rounds to be any chance of paying finals.
Best players were Macy Brodribb, Isla Blake and Roxie Jackson.
