Sitting at 6-6, the Eagles have climbed into the top six — and done so with some impressive scalps along the way, including reigning premiers Shepparton and a thrilling one-goal victory over fellow finals contender Tatura.
While Mansfield’s experienced heads have been in good touch, a tireless young centre has also lifted the Eagles’ finals prospects considerably.
Jess Dolling is no stranger to the Eagles' A-grade midcourt, having built her game over several seasons as a talented junior with GVL representative honours — and she is now firmly making her mark at senior level.
And as one of the chief drivers of the club’s top-flight resurgence, more are standing up and taking notice.
Dolling has been one of the key links through the Eagles midcourt, with her best performance in June coming during the win against the Bulldogs.
The main connector around the court, Dolling missed just one quarter for the month, and helping Mansfield’s cause is her ability to swing into the back court if needed, on several occasions this season marshalling efforts from Wing Defence.
The teenager is now a rising star in the News’ books, but there’s no doubting her billing as an established star inside Mansfield’s four walls for several seasons.
The cat’s out of the bag, however, and Dolling is set to be a key piece of the Eagles finals puzzle as the league turns for home.
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