An undermanned Diggers Rest returned to the winners’ list in the Riddell District Netball League.
Missing several players and with others carrying injuries, the Burras came from behind against Romsey to pull off their best win of the season.
Burras’ coach Pam Strong was thrilled with her team’s performance.
She said it had been a tough few weeks for the side.
“It was really good considering we only have five A-grade players available,” she said.
“It’s been like that the last few games.
“We’ve had girls up from B-grade and they were great and we even played one out of position in the centre.
“We’ve been struggling with illness and injuries. It’s pleasing to get a win like that after a couple of disappointing games.”
Strong said while they had been struggling with numbers, they weren’t getting blown out of games, showing they are still around the standard of other finals’ contenders.
The Burras defeated the Redbacks, 45-44.
Strong said it was a good match.
“We got eight goals up at one point and then they got seven goals up,” she said.
“We would have a bad three minutes and then they would, and the other team would capitalise.
“Everything levelled out and only with one and a half minutes to go scores were level.”
Strong said there was a different feeling at three-quarter time than there had been in previous rounds.
The Burras have held leads against some of the top sides before fading.
She said this week they were full of confidence heading into the final quarter.
“We spoke at three-quarter time … Everyone felt really good and it was a bit different. Really positive,” she said.
“There was the belief we can win.
“We’ve changed a few things at training after the Rockbank loss, and it’s starting to come together.”
Kathie Dicker shot 38 goals from 45 attempts to be the best shooter on court.
Strong said Olivia Thomas was strong in the midcourt, while Jorgia Leonard stood up coming up from B-grade. Normally a defender, Leonard spent time in the centre.
She also praised the efforts of Shelby Strong who shot just seven goals, but with Carly Harrison missing, worked hard in the midcourt and sending the ball into the circle.
Strong said they couldn’t take any game lightly.
“We understand the hard work it takes to make finals,” she said. “It’s such an even season, which is so different to previous years.”
In other results, Melton Centrals returned to the winners’ list with a 45-24 win against Broadford, while Rockbank lost to Macedon 42-34.
