Gippsland Times |
SALE scored a fighting eight-goal win over fifth-placed Wonthaggi in a high standard match played in steady rain during round 12 of Gippsland League netball.

In the third quarter, players on both sides were tested by the elements in heavy rain.

It was a credit to both teams to play with such intensity on a court that was awash with water. Very few players lost their footing and ball handling skills with a ball that must have been like a piece of soap were exceptional.

Sale set-up the win with an outstanding first half, leading 25-12 at the long break. But Wonthaggi, playing with their usual spirit and enthusiasm, kept coming, playing their best netball when the downpour soaked the courts in the third term.

Sale steadied and held on to win 46-38.

Lara Dunkley and Kate Eddy had limited court time, but both played well. Staci Scott, Eddy and wing defender Tarryn Cunningham handled the slippery ball with skill.

In midcourt, Lexie Joyce and Tianna Hogan, who shared the centre and wing attack, set-up chances for goal attack Bec Eddy, sister of defender Kate, and goal shooter Fiona Vandersnoek, who put a winning score on the board.

Sale also gave court time to promising young defender Layla Simmons.

Sale will have another tough encounter at home on Saturday against Drouin, which has accounted for more fancied opposition in Morwell and Traralgon in recent weeks.

MAFFRA went down by just two goals in a thriller against Leongatha.

With Warragul not fielding an A grade side, the Eagles will have the bye in round 13.

In other matches, Drouin defeated Traralgon 39-33 and, on Sunday, Morwell defeated Moe 60-34.