Soccer
Melton Phoenix secured a vital three points in state league 4 soccer at the weekend. The Phoenix smashed Laverton Park 5-1 to stay within striking distance of the league’s top four. Leading 2-1 at half-time, Melton found the back of the net three more times in the second half. The victory means the Phoenix remains in seventh, two points behind fourth-placed Brimbank Stallions. Point Cook defeated Melbourne City, Keilor got the better of Surf Coast and Truganina was too good for Altona North.
Netball
Diggers Rest toppled reigning premiers Melton Centrals by two goals in the Riddell District Netball League on Saturday. In a seesawing encounter, the lead changed hands multiple times. But when it mattered most it was the Burras who came out on top. Diggers Rest scored 11 final-quarter goals to secure a 52-50 win. Centrals’ shooter Renee Hulls scored 30 goals. The win moves Diggers Rest to sixth place on the A-grade ladder while the Centrals slip to eighth.
Hockey
Melton remains in third spot on the Hockey Victoria women’s state league two ladder after a 2-2 draw against Melbourne High School at the weekend. The Mustangs drew first blood thanks to a brilliant goal from Megan Shadbolt eight minutes into the first half. Despite having a number of chances to double its lead, Melton was unable to find the back of the net as half-time approached. On the back of four successive corners, Melbourne eventually hit the scoreboard, tying the scores going into the main break. When play resumed, Melton enjoyed a similar level of attack but again struggled. It was the opposite for Melbourne, which scored to take a 2-1 lead. The Mustangs rallied with Lucy Steele equalising late in the match.
