Dimboola faced the sternest test of any of the round’s favourites against the Southern Mallee Giants, but came away with a comfortable 47-37 by the final whistle.

Roos coach Jodie Hayes said her side was able to establish a lead during the second quarter then hold on.

“The conditions were very wet, there was a lot of water on the court and it was one of those games that could have gone either way,” she said. “Once we had gotten the lead we were able to hold that for the rest of the game.”

Just two goals separated the sides at quarter time before Dimboola was able to build its 10-goal lead during the second term.

Hayes was pivotal through the midcourt while Nicole Polycarpou was clinical at goal shooter.

“We had a bit of a different team this week with two of our regulars unavailable so we looked to the experience of Ant Toet and Abbey Greig to lead and provide calm across the court,” Hayes said. “In saying that I was also impressed by Ruby Redford who played a out a full game at wing attack, which is not usually a position she plays.”

The Giants were not able to eat into Dimboola’s lead during the second half as the teams largely went goal for goal before the match ended in a 10-goal win.

“It’s really good to have put another four points on the board,” Hayes said.

“The girls have been extremely patient on court in recent weeks against some strong defence. It’s been about staying calm under pressure while sticking to what we know.

“There are a couple of really tough games around the corner so it’s good to have built a little bit of a buffer in from fifth position.”

Ruby Fisher and Trudi Hallam were best on court for the Giants. 

The other three game all finished with 29 goals separating the two sides.

The Warrack Eagles accounted for the Horsham Saints at home in another strong display that showed why they have become the team to beat.

The home side had opened a 7-goal lead by quarter time and built on that in every quarter to eventually win 59-30.

Megan Werner shot 38 of her sides’ goals and was named best on court along with Emma Koschitzke. Gabby O’Brien and Ash Grace were best on court for the Saints.

Minyip-Murtoa outplayed the Stawell Warriors at Minyip.

The Burras outscored the Warriors by 19 goals in a dominant second half on the way to a 56-27 triumph.

The final match of the round saw Ararat make short work of Nhill. Tahnee Walker and Krystal Fisher were impressive at either end of the court for the Rats in a 55-26 win.