DESPITE coach Kelly Cousins believing her side isn't as strong as last season, Whorouly has put itself in great shape to finish in the top four at season's end after continuing its unbeaten run on Saturday.
The reigning premier suffered a mass exodus over the off-season but has quickly regrouped and notched five straight wins to sit on top of the ladder.
While wins over Bright, Swanpool, Glenrowan and King Valley were expected it was the Lions' five-goal win over an in-form Greta on Saturday that now has them as a genuine flag contender.
As expected, the first quarter was a frenetic affair with both teams looking to gain the decisive edge.
The Lions grabbed a three-goal lead on the back of strong play from Cousins and Sally Chalmers but the Blues weren't going to go away in a hurry.
Over the course of the next two quarters Greta managed to drop the margin by two goals to trail by one at the final break and set up a tantalising fourth quarter.
But the goal-for-goal term many thought was going to happen didn't eventuate as the Lions grabbed control with a strong defensive effort.
While it managed just nine goals itself, Whorouly restricted the Blues to just four as it secured an impressive 40-35 victory.
Chalmers, Cousins and Madeline Lingham (23 goals) starred for the Lions while the Blues were best served by Lindsey Tanner and Kelly Smith.
In other matches, Milawa made it five wins in a row after accounting for King Valley by 14 goals, North Wangaratta was too good for Glenrowan while Moyhu easily beat Bright.
Tarrawingee defeated Bonnie Doon by 41 goals, Swanpool beat archrival Benalla by nine while Goorambat was forced to work overtime before winning against Tatong.
This Saturday sees the two unbeaten teams in Milawa and Whorouly clash to see who will take top spot on the ladder.
By - JEREMY WILSON.
www.nenews.com.au
OUT IN FRONT: Bonnie Doon's Allie Colyer passes off to teammate Jess Walsh in their side's loss to Tarrawingee on Saturday.
PHOTO: Cheryl Browne
Last Modified on 11/05/2012 10:49
