ALBURY exploded into the Ovens and Murray netball season with a surprise 48-42 win over traditional heavyweight Yarrawonga at Albury Sportsground on Saturday.
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Both teams led during stages of the game but uncharacteristically, the Pigeons ran out of legs in the fourth quarter and the home team capitalised.
Coach Jenny Jones was ecstatic with the performance.
“It was a really good win,” Jones said.
“We kept in touch in the first half and our second half was really strong.
“We have worked hard over the pre-season, harder than any year before, so it’s a good reward for the girls.”
The Albury defenders worked overtime taking intercepts all over the court and made Bridget Cassar and Abbey Jones change their style of play.
Sarah Moore was the stand-out for Albury, shooting 31 of its total 48 goals, while Teegan Dolling also made the most of her opportunity to step into A-grade ranks.
“We had seven really good contributors,” Jones said.
“Teegan Dolling stepped up in the third quarter and played well and Sarah Moore always goes plays well. It was just a really good team effort.”
Meanwhile, reigning premiers Lavington defeated Wodonga 44-35 at Lavington Oval.
The Panthers exposed their opponents’ lack of height with Ainslee O’Connell and Kate Yensch outstanding for the victors while Wodonga will welcome the return of tall shooter Jane Cook next weekend.
Myrtleford defeated Wod-onga Raiders 56-43 after skipping to a 10-goal advantage at quarter-time through the strong work of Saige Broz and Marnie Doodewaard and held a comfortable buffer for the rest of the match.
Youngster Skye Hillier was prominent for the Raiders.
In next weekend’s split round, North Albury do battle with Wangaratta Rovers and Wangaratta hosts Corowa- Rutherglen.
