Nhill proving its worth back in competition

Nhill is proving its capacity for finals contention in the 2023 Wimmera league A Grade netball season and will want to back it up again this weekend with a win against Minyip-murtoa.

The Tigers are positioned in fifth on the ladder and a win on Saturday will likely push them one game ahead of Ararat in sixth position.

Nhill will come up against Minyip-murtoa who had a hard loss against Ararat in round seven.

Burras’ coach Sheridan Petering said she expected the game against Nhill to be a tough one.

“We do not know what to expect from Nhill, but it will be exciting to play against them again,” she said.

“It’s nice to have Nhill back in the A Grade competition and we look forward to having a crack again this week.”

Petering said the team had some young players who were finding their feet in senior ranks with support from experienced players.

“Jessie Newell is a force shooting in the goal ring and her leadership and direction for our younger playing group is so valuable,” she said.

“Lucy Brand is also a standout as she is so versatile and is going end to end in any position we need.”

Nhill co-coach Tracey Bell said the Tigers were regaining confidence after a few injuries had impacted the team list.

“We’re expecting a good contest against Minyip-murtoa, but with the way we are playing, the girls’ confidence should allow them to take control of the game and come away with a win,” she said.

“We’re working on being strong from the first quarter.

“The team worked into their groove in the second half and, under pressure on Saturday, had a strong third quarter.

“This group uses their third quarter to gain control and edge ahead, which is a real positive.” Bell said

Ellen Bennett in the midcourt and Larnie Hobbs in goal keeper had been the most consistent and strongest players for the season so far.

Across the league, Ararat will have a challenge ahead against the undefeated Horsham Saints.

Warrack Eagles and Southern Mallee Giants will have a tight contest as both look to add a win to the board.

Second-placed Horsham will likely be too strong for Stawell, who are sitting third but will not make it easy for the Demons to secure a win.