Tigers win thriller

Lang Lang enjoyed a two-goal win to open its A grade campaign in a quieter than usual start to the Ellinbank and District netball season.

Clubs were advised Nyora had successfully applied to not field an A grade side this season, resulting in just three games played on Saturday.

The closest game was between two of last year’s finalists, with no more than two goals separating Lang Lang and Trafalgar at each change. Lang Lang led by one at half-time and Trafalgar by two at the last change. However, a few turnovers gave Lang Lang momentum and they capitalised, winning 38-36.

Last year’s premiers Neerim South proved too strong for Buln Buln, winning 40-21.

After trailing by just nine at half-time, the Lyrebirds struggled to break through the Cats’ tough defence, shooting just one goal in the third. Despite a more even final quarter, the 16-goal margin at three-quarter time couldn’t be reduced.

However, keeping the Cats to just 40 goals, will give the Lyrebirds confidence moving forwards.

In a battle between two young sides, Yarragon’s good start ultimately proved the difference against Poowong.

The Panthers jumped out on court to lead by 10 at half-time. In positive signs for the Pies, they refused to give in, and narrowed this margin. Ultimately, Yarragon took the points 46-39.

Due to Catani and Longwarry being fixtured to play Nyora once and to keep games played equal, these two sides played in a practice match with no points up for grabs. Ellinbank and Nilma Darnum had the byes. Next week: Yarragon v Neerim South, Trafalgar v Poowong, Longwarry v Nilma Darnum, Buln Buln v Ellinbank. Byes: Lang Lang and Catani.

Photographs by AMANDA EMARY. Above: Buln Buln goal defence Erin Smethurst defends the shot of Neerim South goal shooter Nicole Alcock during wet conditions in A grade. Neerim, the reigning premiers, had a strong 40-21 win.

Behind the line for a centre pass in the 15 and under game are (from left) Nyora wing defence Ruby Brown, Nilma wing attack Kaely Oellermann, Nyora goal defence Lelaina Watson and Nilma goal attack Addison Byers.

Neerim South goal defence Christie Urie looks for a long ball into attack against Buln Buln in Saturday’s A grade game.

Buln Buln goal attack Paige Baker dishes off a pass as she makes a return to the court in A grade against Neerim South.

Nilma Darnum goal defence Ciara Burgess drives down the court against Nyora in an afternoon 15 and under game.

Nilma Darnum’s Addison Byers defends Nyora’s Lelaina Watson in the 15 and under game.

Nilma Darnum goal shooter Zoe Parnaby passes to wing attack Chelsea Withers in a 27-3 win.