SALE’S 17 and under side was defeated for the first time this Eastern Regional State League netball season.
On Friday night in Churchill, Sale lost 45-33 to Gippsland, which kept its unbeaten record intact.
Gippsland restricted Sale to just nine goals in the first quarter and at one point Gippsland scored more than five goals in a row as it took a 28-17 lead into half-time. Sale was able to find its feet again in the second half but couldn’t undo the damage.
East Gippsland clung onto third place after giving a first half barrage to North Gippsland.
East goaler Emmagyn Williams (21 goals from 29 attempts) was able to help her team take a 15-goal lead into half-time. North hit back in the third as East went cold, unfortunately the slow start left it wanting, giving East a 45-26 victory.
Determined to secure a spot in the semi-finals, Pakenham cruised to an easy 50-34 win over Alberton.
Pakenham charged away in the second quarter to lead 28-18 at half-time and continued its heavy scoring in the final quarter with goal shooters Alicia Scott (26 goals from 34 attempts) and Sidney Kneebone (24 for 35) giving Pakenham a 16-goal victory.
Mid Gippsland had the bye.
IN the open division, teams each played two or three matches of two 15-minute halves.
With finals contenders already decided, Gippsland was able to underline its dominance by defeating Morwell Red and Morwell Navy to remain the only undefeated team in the division.
Morwell Navy was competitive but unsuccessful in its efforts to overcome Gippsland and Morwell Red, however was able to prevent North Gippsland from securing its first win.
Alberton conquered North Gippsland and Morwell Red.
Morwell Red showed confidence beating Morwell Navy by one goal, however weren’t able to maintain the pressure, losing its next two games.
IN the last round before the finals will be played this weekend.
The match of the round in the 17 and under competition will be between Sale and East Gippsland at the Gippsland Regional Sports Complex, Sale this Sunday from 1.30pm.
Friday night at Churchill, Pakenham will play North Gippsland and Mid Gippsland and Alberton will meet. Gippsland will have the bye.
In the open division tonight, teams will play up to two more shortened matches each.
