A plan hatched at training to simulate intense pressure has paid off in Albury’s narrow win over Wangaratta.
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The Tigers grabbed a four-goal quarter-time lead and never relented in posting a 39-34 away win.
“We’ve had a couple of games where we’ve really been challenged in third and fourth quarters and we’ve really made a point at training when we’re under that intense pressure,” coach Olivia Aughton said.
“We need ways to get around it, like driving on to the ball or re-setting, just show that strength in the mindset other than just anticipating someone else to get a turnover or a spectacular goal or intercept.
“I’m really proud of the girls, they kept their composure and that intensity for the whole four quarters.”
The win pushes the fourth-placed Tigers a win ahead of Wangaratta.
“I think Gabe (McRae) had a really great game in wing defence, she shut down ‘Maggies’ wing attack,” Aughton said.
“Also ‘Getts’ (Brigetta Hart) with her defensive pressure around the ball and I also thought Claire (Wilson) had a great holding game today.”
Wilson shot 21 goals from 27 attempts, while Jess Fisher-Curnow missed only four in landing 18.
The Pies’ Amanda Umanski top-scored with 16, with Hannah Grady, who along with Issy Byrne was celebrating 100 club games, named in their best, as well as Katie Dean.
Meanwhile, Yarrawonga’s milestone maker was able to celebrate with a win.
Coach Bridget Cassar racked up her 200th A grade game, posting 41 goals in the 58-35 win over Corowa-Rutherglen.
Cassar is one of only five players at the Pigeons to achieve the feat.
But it was recruit Mal Nankervis and Toni Wilson medallist Hannah Symes who were the home team’s best, while Emily Laracy and Kiara Mclean were the pick of the Roos.
Lavington maintained its unbeaten run with a 54-37 win over Wangaratta Rovers.
One-time Toni Wilson medallist Sarah Senini racked up 37 goals to claim best on court.
Caitlyn Gerecke joined the sharpshooter in the Panthers’ finest, while the Hawks were best served by Caitlyn Cose, who added 21 goals, and Jenna McLeod.
North Albury has kept its minor premiership hopes alive with a 56-35 win over Wodonga Raiders.
Grace Senior snared a round-high 48 goals to be the standout player, although Kirby Hilton and Emily Browne also played well.
Georgia Thomas scored 21 goals for the home team.
And Wodonga virtually handed Myrtleford the wooden spoon with a 46-40 victory.
The visitors are now two wins clear of the winless Saints.
