Lions signal how dangerous they’ll be this year

Seymour has fired a serious warning shot to its fellow Goulburn Valley League A-grade netball premiership contenders in round seven, overcoming Shepparton United with a shock 56-41 win at Kings Park on Saturday.

Ellie O’Sullivan’s side was ruthless in what was perhaps its biggest test of the season to date, running away with a solid 15-goal lead over the Dees at the full-time siren.

Rosie O’Sullivan came into goals for Seymour on Saturday, providing a crucial target for her side in its attacking ring.

The Lions now sit at 6-1 after seven rounds and will head to Deakin Reserve to face Shepparton in a fortnight.

As for the Bears, they’re back on the winners’ list after a hard-fought 58-45 win over Rochester.

A fast start from Tracey Brereton’s side had the Bears in command from the get-go on Saturday, putting up a tidy 17 goals to the Tigers’ nine in the first term.

Rochester fought back in the second through Eloise Cuttriss and Teal Hocking, but an 18-goal-to-11 third quarter in the Bears’ favour more or less sealed the deal.

Brereton said her side had shown resilience in grinding out a win against quality opposition after a heavy defeat last time out.

“I think we had some really important things that we needed to focus on today to get back to playing our style of netball,” she said.

“Accountability was a word that we used. It was about everyone owning their own performance on court today, I think we showed that. It’s a really nice win considering we’re coming into the break.”

Abigail Rowe was at the centre of a lot of Shepparton’s play, putting in a fine performance across wing defence.

Ashlee Cann halted a lot of Rochester play on defence, while goaler Tanya Holland had a strong day in the attacking ring.

“They all played really good roles for us but it’s hard because I thought everyone hit their targets today,” Brereton said.

Elsewhere in Saturday action, Mooroopna delivered Benalla a third straight defeat.

The Cats further cemented their spot inside the top four with a comprehensive 51-16 win at Benalla Showgrounds.

Fast, efficient ball movement was key for the visitors, who dominated the contest from start to finish.

Photos: Megan Fisher Eyes on the prize: Shepparton’s Ella Sidebottom goes for goal.

On the move: Shepparton’s Jacinta Todd gets the ball under control.

Finding space: Rochester’s Teal Hocking makes herself available.

On the move: Rochester’s Madison Egglestone makes a pass.

Precision: Shepparton’s Lili Murphy fires a pass away.

Hands up: Rochester’s Bridgette Holt defends.

Nothing but net: Shepparton’s Tanya Holland.

Quick hands: Shepparton’s Tanner Edwards.

Full focus: Shepparton’s Ashlee Cann.