GVL | Echuca fends off determined Bulldogs

By Josh Huntly

Jul 24, 2022

My ball: Echuca's Greta Pearson takes possession against Tatura. Photo: Steve Huntley Photo by Steve Huntley

A fast-starting Echuca was forced to work hard for its 10th win of the season as Tatura belied its 11th-placed standing to give the Murray Bombers a run for their money at Victoria Park.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

Echuca was convincing out of the blocks with a 17-goal-to-11 head start over the Bulldogs, but persistent Tatura kept within three goals at each change.

In the end, Echuca was a class above in the 60-47 win as the Murray Bombers pulled themselves back on to the winners’ list.

On target: Echuca's Bianca Willis shoots for goal. Photo: Steve Huntley Photo by Steve Huntley

Belinda Lees, in game 50 for the club, was arguably its standout performer, while her front-court partner Bianca Willis was also strong in goals for the Murray Bombers.

Jacquie James was prominent through the middle third of the court, helping Echuca to its second win over Tatura this season.

Charlotte Gray, Taylah Lloyde and Steph Smith-Gorrie were pivotal in their side’s push for an upset, but couldn’t help avoid a 13th defeat.

The result takes Echuca to a 10-4 win-loss record, but the Murray Bombers will remain in fifth spot after Euroa’s thrilling five-goal win over the Shepparton Swans.

With just four rounds remaining in the home-and-away season, Echuca looks set to be well represented come finals time.

The Murray Bombers’ under-15 and under-17 sides sit second alongside B-reserve, while Echuca’s B-grade netballers are on top of the ladder.

Around the A-grade competition, ladder-leader Seymour extended its winning streak to 11 with a confident win over Kyabram, while Shepparton United is hot on its tail with a big win over third-placed Mooroopna.