Round nine had third play fourth in an even match throughout. 

Natimuk United came out on top in a close two-point lead, adding four points the ladder.

The final score was 39 to 37. 

In the first quarter, Southern Mallee Giants took a two-point lead, eight to six. 

Natimuk United coach, Cheryl Sudholz said the lead changed every quarter. 

“The first quarter they got away with a couple goal led, and then it see-sawed, so we got a jump in the next quarter, and then they got the led in the third,” she said. 

“It came down to the last five minutes of the game where we were able to capitalise on a couple of intercepts.”

Natimuk United led at half time, 19 to 14. 

Grabbing the lead once more in the third quarter, Southern Mallee Giants were out front by two points, 29 to 27. 

Sudholz said a slower, more controlled game could have widened their lead. 

“There were patches where we probably got too excited and rushed it in to the goal ring where we would normally work it around,” she said. 

“I think it came down to great defensive pressure at both ends. 

“Their defence were really able to hold Shannon well. 

“When their shooters missed a goal our defenders got a few intercepts in the last quarter, which we were able to capitalise on.” 

Sudholz said the game felt like a final. 

“It was very tight and well contested all day,” she said.

“It was a really good game of netball, even the crowd got behind it.”  

Best players for Natimuk United were goal-keeper, Casey Vanstan, and wing-attack, Sudholz. 

Sudholz said it was a big team effort.

“I give full credit to our defensive unit because their goalies hardly missed, no matter where they shot from they were quite accurate,” she said. 

“In the last quarter [the defenders] kept us in the game.”

“It just shows a turnover or two plus the centre pass can swing the game around.” 

Best players for the Southern Mallee Giants were centre, Anne Noonan and goal-keeper, Caitlin Hickey.

“I was quite impressed with [Hickey], she was very deceiving,” she said. 

“She wasn’t the same height as our goal-shooter Shannon Couch, but she was able to stick to her like glue.” 

“We weren’t prepared for her agility. She not only would hold on to Shannon, but also jump and take balls at the same height.”

Sudholz said Southern Mallee Giant’s shooting unit, Annabel Stewart and Codie Robins, played very well together.

In round ten, Natimuk United will not rest with a challenging game against Harrow-Balmoral. 

“It will be another quick game, so if we can slow it down to our game and get in front it should be just as close,” she said. 

“Now with Amy Pilgrim in goals, it’s not just about getting the ball to Shannon.”

“Amy is also confident to shoot any where in the ring.” 

Southern Mallee Giants will hit the court against Edenhope-Apsley who are fresh off a win.