Swifts stay strong
Swifts have continued to stamp themselves as a top-six prospect in the Horsham District competition despite falling short of Edenhope-apsley at the weekend.
The teams played off in a thriller at Stawell’s North Park, with the Saints getting over the line by a goal.
The Baggies would have been disappointed to drop their first match for the season but would have been happy to know they have what it takes to challenge stronger sides this year.
Michaela Armer once again had an impact for her new side, slotting 24 goals in a best-oncourt showing.
Fellow newcomer Heidi Sudholz was also impressive in the midcourt and battled hard all game to feed her goalies.
Swifts will face their biggest test of the season this week when they take on reigning premier Harrow-balmoral.
The Baggies will put up a good fight but the Southern Roos’ strength in defence and height at both ends of the court should help them get over the line.
Defender Megan Russell and goalie Amy Lewis were best in the Roos’ loss to Natimuk United and will play key roles again against Swifts.
The Ewes were too strong to the tune of 17 goals following a close first half.
Defender Casey Vanstan continued her standout season while Emily Hateley won recognition for her efforts in centre.
Natimuk United will travel to play Taylors Lake this week in what will be a one-sided affair.
The Lakers are coming off a tough loss to Kalkee, where they were best served by defender Tia-ana Parker and midcourter Jordan Schwarz.
Storm to tackle Tigers
Jeparit-rainbow will return from a bye to tackle Pimpinio, which will be keen for a win after a comprehensive 36-goal defeat at the hands of Laharum.
Versatile players Jenelle Baker and Marnie Lehmann were shining lights in the loss.
Pimpinio will have height at both ends of the court and Jeparit-rainbow’s shooters will need to be accurate to avoid Lehmann stealing the rebounds.
Laharum looks set to continue its winning streak against Rupanyup, but an improved Panthers outfit will not lay down without a fight.
The final 40-27 score of Rupanyup’s loss to Noradjuha-quantong last week did not reflect the closeness of the match.
The Panthers produced plenty of defensive pressure, led by Kayla Woods, and went hard for every ball.
They will attempt to do the same this week, but the Demons’ strong bodies and height advantage will be too much for them to overcome.
Noradjuha-quantong was best served by midcourters Carly Creek and Georgia Francis.
The Bombers will take on Edenhope-apsley in what should be a good match.
Ash Ryan, the Saints’ best against Swifts, is back in Edenhope-apsley’s midcourt following a stint with the Bombers and will have a key role to play.
Both teams look even across the court and whoever converts well on the day will win. Round-four results: Laharum d Pimpinio 70-24, Noradjuha-quantong d Rupanyup 4027, Edenhope-apsley d Swifts 45-44, Natimuk United d Harrow-balmoral 61-44, Kalkee d Taylors Lake 72-17.