This was Hillier's first season back on court for the Panthers after suffering a devastating season ending knee injury during the 2017 grand final, also against Yarrawonga.

Hillier said it's hard to separate the two injuries.

"I turned to take off from the ring and as soon as I put the weight on my left foot it was like being shot in the calf," Hillier said.

"As soon as I heard the pop, I didn't even look behind me.

"I knew there was no chance it could have popped that loud and just be minor damage.

"A few people have asked me about the pain compared to the knee and it was probably the same, except your knee gives, so you get a bit of relief."

Hillier was forced off the court during the late stages of the third quarter in the Panther's gripping three-goal win against the Pigeon's at J.C Lowe Oval, with the rupture occurring on the same leg as her ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

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Hillier admits she's facing another long haul of rehabilitation, opting for a non-surgical recovery.

"I can't say netball is the end goal at this point, I just want to get it right," Hillier said.

"It's going to be another long recovery, but I'll get through it.

"I'm still coaching B-grade which is probably going to be the best thing for me to have that distraction.

"It was a really good hit-out on the weekend and probably what both teams needed.

"Yarrawonga were awesome about it and I've had heaps of messages of support, so I'm just thankful for everyone and ready to get this rehab done."

Hillier wasted no time returning to form this season with her shooting percentage at 82 for the Panthers', as well as being part of the Ovens and Murray grand final side at the association championships in Frankston last month.

With only four games left to be played for the regular season, Lavington have cemented themselves as a team to watch in finals holding onto top position with Corowa-Rutherglen, with the two side's set to meet in the last round.

Yarrawonga's narrow loss during the weekend sees them sitting just inside the competition's top five, just edging out Albury.