Standing strong

Harrow-balmoral’s A Grade side has undergone significant changes to its line-up this year but has gelled in time to chase another Horsham District league flag.

The Southern Roos are never far from finals contention and last year’s runners-up have worked their way into third spot and an elimination-final showdown with six-placed Kalkee.

Coach Amy Lewis, who returned to the side this year, said the home-and-away season had been both exciting and challenging.

Harrow-balmoral lost four experienced players following the team’s grand final showdown with Natimuk United last year, but Lewis said the need to rejig had opened up opportunities for several upand-coming players.

“It’s been fantastic to be able to give our juniors some senior experience and help them develop,” she said.

“They start out as young, timid girls and by the end of the season they are holding their own and have earned their spot. It’s wonderful to see them grow in confidence and it also keeps pressure on the more experienced players to keep performing.”

The return of decorated player Ebonie Salter in May has definitely strengthened the side, freeing up fit and dynamic Megan Russell to take control in the centre when not helping out in defence.

Salter’s ability to read and dictate play is second to none and she pairs well with young, tall defender Ella Rees, who is a strong rebounder with courage to attack outside the circle.

Up the other end of the court, Lewis is the key focal point in the attacking line, shooting the majority of the side’s goals.

Lewis is an experienced, accurate goalie who performs well under pressure.

Her offsider, Sammy Crick, is a quick, explosive player who backs herself for the long shot.

The Southern Roos have plenty of versatility in the midcourt, with Olivia Muldoon able to switch from attack to defence with ease, hard-working Alice Houlihan showing plenty of leadership and Febey and Amber Mcclure willing to take on any challenge that comes their way.

“We have a good balance of experienced players and dynamic youth,” Lewis said.

“I think that’s one of our biggest strengths, along with our versatility and combinations.”

The Southern Roos set themselves up for finals with a big win over Jeparitrainbow, which saw the outfit jump from fourth to third.

Lewis said she was pleased with her team’s performance.

“The girls were very focused and determined,” she said.

“Everyone was asked to focus on something specific, which they did. I felt the girls really stepped up.”

Lewis said she looked forward to another strong team effort against Kalkee at Edenhope on Saturday.

“We’re excited and looking forward to it and hopefully we’ll have a long finals campaign,” she said. “I think we are absolutely a team that will be able to hold its own and hopefully go all the way.”