Team bolstered

Natimuk United has had the wood over Horsham District league opponent Laharum for the past few seasons, but the Demons hope a new recruit will help the A Grade side reverse its fortunes this year.

Laharum, like many clubs, has struggled to match the height of Ewes shooter Shannon Couch, but will hope the addition of former Noradjuha-quantong premiership defender Rebecca Mcintyre will make the difference.

Mcintyre, who was best on court in the side’s 38-goal win over Swifts, has been filling a void in goals so far this season but can easily be used at either end of the court this week.

Both the Demons and Natimuk United have enjoyed strong starts to the season, with the Ewes coming off a 23-goal triumph over Jeparit-rainbow.

Centre Emily Hateley played a key role in the win and will be vital again this week against Laharum’s slick midcourt.

The Ewes still have dominant defender Jo Taylor set to return from a knee injury and if she plays, is likely to make a big difference. This match could easily go either way.

Spectators should be treated to a mouthwatering clash as two sides likely finish near the top of the table battle for early bragging rights.

Close encounter

Noradjuha-quantong enjoyed a five-goal win over Southern Mallee Giants in a close encounter at Beulah and will look forward to an easier round against Taylors Lake this week.

Defenders Yolly Francis and Carly Creek shone for the victors, with the Giants best served by shooter Codie Maree Robins and newcomer Caitlin Hickey.

There will be no rest for the Giants, who will host ladder leader Harrow-balmoral at Hopetoun. This should be a great match to watch between two well-drilled sides.

The Southern Roos, coming off a 42-goal demolition of Pimpinio, are likely to be too strong but will be forced to work for the four points.

Megan Russell was a standout in her new role in the centre last week, with defender Ebonie Salter also strong.

Pimpinio was best served by coach Marnie Lehmann and midcourter Shae-lea Fischer.

The Tigers will turn their attention to Swifts on Saturday. Both sides should be strong in defence, so the outcome could come down to accuracy of the goalies.

In other round-three matches, Edenhopeapsley should overcome a developing Jeparit-rainbow and Rupanyup might just get over the line against Kalkee in a close one. Round two results: Edenhope-apsley d Kalkee 31-24, Harrow-balmoral d Pimpinio 61-19, Natimuk United d Jeparit-rainbow 54-31, Rupanyup d Taylors Lake 43-28, Laharum d Swifts 55-17, Noradjuha-quantong d Southern Mallee Giants 48-43