A dominant second quarter ensured Rupertswood accounted for fellow Riddell District Netball League finals contender Romsey at the weekend.
For three of the four quarters, nothing split the second-placed Sharks and fifth-placed Redbacks, with experience getting the Sharks across the line 56-43.
Scores were level at quarter-time, with both sides making the most of their opportunities.
Sharks’ pair Stacey Northey and Amy Starzer missed one goal between them, while Redbacks’ shooters Hope Evans and Bronwyn Blair went at 100 per cent accuracy.
The second quarter proved to be the match winner for the Sharks, opening up a 13-goal lead at half-time. The Redbacks only had seven attempts for the quarter.
While the Redbacks matched it with the Sharks in the second half, with scores levelled for those two quarters, the damage had already been done.
The two goal shooters were best on court for their respective sides. Northey scored 31 goals for the Sharks, while Evans scored 29 goals from 33 attempts.
For more pictures of Saturday’s game, CLICK HERE
In other results, Lancefield made sure of finals contention with a win over Broadford. After a 13-4 first quarter, the Tigers consolidated at 47-25.
With most players back on the field, it was goal attack Rhys Carter-Coleman Tukapua who was best on court.
The Tigers remain one game outside the top six, behind a Diggers Rest fresh from a big win over Sunbury Kangaroos.
The Burras were in control all day at Boardman Reserve, and despite the Kangaroos producing one of their best scores of the season, the Burras won 54-27.
Melton Centrals remain focused on third place after beating Woodend-Hesket. Despite missing captain Jessica May and defenders Catherine Hocking and Melissa Laird, a Centrals’ win was never in doubt, and final scores were 61-33.
Vanessa Seddon was the dominant shooter, scoring 52 goals for Centrals. For the Hawks, Chelsea Tobin was best, while Madeline Staresina shot 22 goals.
Ladder leaders Riddell and third-placed Macedon maintained ladder positions after byes, as did Wallan.
The five other finals contenders – Rupertswood, Melton Centrals, Lancefield, Romsey and Diggers Rest – have a bye this weekend.
