Eagles and Demons primed for big clash

Warrack Eagles will continue to sharpen their game in Wimmera Netball Association when they confront Horsham, in Horsham, on Saturday.

The Eagles will go into the game after scoring a narrow 45-42 top-ofthe-table win over Minyip-murtoa.

Last week the Eagles came out strongly and jumped to a nine-goal lead at the first break. But the Burras made settling changes and won the next term by four goals.

The Burras shot their way to within a goal midway through the final term, but the Eagles ultimately prevailed.

Defender Penny Fisher worked hard and Briodi Mckenzie shot consistently for four quarters for the Eagles.

Horsham travelled up to Beulah where the Demons beat Southern Mallee Giants, 84-31.

Georgie Carberry and Casey Jess were best for the Demons, while Codie Maree Robins and Maddelyne Shannon won votes for the Giants.

Minyip-murtoa is favourite to beat Nhill this week but would be foolish to underestimate the Tigers.

An undermanned Nhill was disappointed to lose to Stawell 57-67, although it posted its highest score for the season.

Nhill was without defender Emma Hawker, versatile Brittany Keller and midcourter Jess Smith and so trialled new combinations at both ends of the court.

Goalie Rosie Smith played her first game in defence and combined well with versatile Sarah Dickinson.

Emma Beer came out of season retirement to play her first game since round one and under-15 player Ruby James made her A Grade debut.

Charlotte Foulds shone in goals to take best-on-court honours for the Tigers, but it was the one-percenters that allowed Stawell to secure the points.

The Warriors led at every change and in the end it was Jemma Clarkson, Rachel Wood and Ebony Summers who won best-player honours.

Stawell now meets Horsham Saints, who are coming off a bye.

Ararat will take on Southern Mallee Giants this weekend after winning 5442 against Dimboola.

The Rats and Roos impressed at Dimboola, with Dimboola in control and leading at the first break and the Rats coming from behind in the second half.

Young Ararat goalie Tayla Borrelli stepped up after shooter Tahnee Walker went off with injury, and she shone, shooting and passing with class.

Borrelli and goal attack Racquel Scott put on an impressive display.

Krystal Fisher used her long reach and caused many turnovers for the winners.

Dimboola’s best were Billie-jo Barber and Stephanie Glover.

The Eagles clearly lead the competition from Horsham and Ararat, on equal points, with Minyip-murtoa now fourth and Horsham Saints fifth. Dimboola is a game outside the five.