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There are just three matches left before finals, and the top six of the A grade ladder is still very much in flux.
While Milawa are most likely to take out the minor premiership with a two-game buffer, second through to sixth could all change dramatically, as teams fight to give themselves the best chance come the finals.
Reigning premiers Bonnie Doon sits fifth overall on the ladder, and will rip into their last three matches with vigour after taking the bye last weekend.
With a wealth of experience in September netball, Bombers coach Michelle Tanner said simply making the cut was half the battle.
“I think we’re probably just ready to start finals and see how we progress,” she said.
“Finals are always different, more of an even playing field and everyone is playing their hardest.
“I know for us it's been a difficult year with the team changing most weeks, so we'll be looking forward to stability.
“There’s no specific aim to make any particular spot on the ladder, we’re just grateful to be there amongst it.
“Once finals hit, it's anyone's game.”
The Bombers last three matches feature two fellow finalists, and their first assignment couldn’t be much harder.
This weekend, they take on one of the best defensive teams in the entire competition in Goorambat, who will be eager to continue their form after coming agonisingly close to knocking off ladder leaders Milawa.
While the Bombers managed to hold off the Bats 49-35 last time they faced off, Tanner won’t take that as a clear advantage heading into this weekend.
“We've got three tough games to end the year so it will be one game at a time,” she said.
“We definitely don't have an edge over Goorambat, it will be anyone's game.
“As for their defence, I think we have our own structures in place so sticking to our game plan will be what we will focus on.”
Elsewhere, Moyhu has a chance to make a play for finals when they take on sixth-placed Bright, who are a game and a half safe inside contention.
Should the Hoppers get up, they’ll need to win one of their last two games and hope Bright come up short – it’s a long shot, but the belief will be driving the Hoppers onwards.
In other games, Whorouly hosts North Wangaratta, Greta is at home to Tarrawingee, and the All Blacks take on Milawa at Friendlies Reserve.





