Hope remains for Magpies

A place in the Ovens and Murray A grade netball finals remains tantalisingly close for Wangaratta Magpies despite their loss to North Albury at the weekend. The Magpies still trail fifth-placed Lavington by two points on the ladder with the Panthers well-beaten by third-placed Wodonga Raiders 42-29. The Hoppers dominated the second and third quarters to be 15 goals up against the 'Pies going into the last, eventually taking the four points 51-38. Wangaratta coach Shea Cunningham said the second quarter lapse proved costly. "The Hoppers got the jump on us in the second term," Cunningham said. "We lost a bit of structure and didn’t capitalise on our centre pass conversions. "A few unforced errors crept in, and they punished us quickly. "But credit to them—they were sharp and took their chances." Cunningham said the Panthers loss provided some brief relief as far as final aspirations go, but the team's approach remained the same. "It’s definitely a boost knowing we’re still just one win away from the top five, but our mindset remains week-to-week," she said. "We’re aware of the opportunity, especially with Lavington at home this weekend, but we’re not getting ahead of ourselves. "Every game is a chance to improve and build momentum." Despite the loss there were some standout performances from Hannah Grady, Katie Dean, and Olivia Holmes, who all had consistent games and provided plenty of turnovers for their attacking end, while Amanda Umanski and Claire Wilson led the goal scoring for the Magpies. Wangaratta Rovers were no match for powerhouse Yarrawonga on the scoreboard but the game still featured plenty of highlights and high-quality netball. The Pigeons took the points 71-34, but Rovers coach Gracie Reid said there was still plenty to like about her side's performance. "Holly McCarthy and Amelia Sharp continued to deliver consistent performances each week, bringing stability and reliability to the team across all four quarters," she said. "Briony Simpson also made a strong impact, stepping out on court and doing exactly what was asked of her. "Her composed approach and willingness to play her role effectively were a great contribution to the team’s overall effort." Reid was also impressed with her side's strength and cohesion throughout the entire match, maintaining their intensity well into the final quarter. "Yarra' proved to be a highly intelligent and well-drilled side, showing their experience and game sense across the court," she said. "Bridget Cassar was on fire, setting up plays left, right, and centre in the goal circle. "Despite the pressure, Lara and Amelia did a great job challenging their attack line for all four quarters. "In the attacking end, we looked after the ball well and worked it into our goalers with purpose, allowing for high-quality shooting opportunities." The teams combined for 28 goals in a very fast-paced final quarter, with both squads going goal-for-goal in a tightly contested finish. Reid herself shot 10 from 10 goals for the quarter, while Milla Schubert, another product of the junior program and elevated from the B grade side, contributed four (seven for the game), while Yarra responded with 11 from 12 from Bridget Cassar and five from five from Madie Allan. "It was a high-pressure, even quarter that showcased strong execution from both sides under fatigue," Reid said. "We maintained our composure, moved the ball well, and created solid opportunities under the post to keep ourselves in the contest right to the final whistle. "Milla is a tall goal shooter - well, taller than both Bec and I - and brings a strong physical presence to the circle. "She has the ability to hold her space effectively but can also move in and out of the ring with ease, adapting to the team’s needs. "She has strong hands, excellent reach, and continues to show great promise as a developing player." In tough news for the Hawks Kara O'Donohue will miss the rest of the season due to injury. "To support the team over the final weeks, we’ll be bringing in a few junior players and some B-grade contributors to assist with depth and rotations as needed," Reid said. The Hawks face top of the table Corowa-Rutherglen this weekend.

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