Blues repeat underdog victory against Rams

By Matthew Kappos

Sep 1, 2024

Jazmin Clark makes a move through the mid-court. Photos: Aidan Briggs

Approximately 12 months ago Tongala was entering a final against Deniliquin Rams as the less-favoured side.

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Fast forward to Sunday afternoon and the Blues found themselves in the same position, and escaped with the same result.

Milly Brock lines up a goal attempt. Photo by Aidan Briggs

After Deni took both meetings with Tongala this season, the Blues flipped the script on the Rams again to record victory by the narrowest of margins, 50-49.

Tongala jumped ahead early in the contest, leading 15-10 at the first break, but a Deniliquin run saw the Rams lead the game at half-time by a single goal.

Eve Gregor plants her feet for Deni. Photo by Aidan Briggs

A further one goal was added to the lead in the third, but it was the Blues who did just enough in the dying minutes to secure the match.

It had been a chaotic week for A-grade sides after a player eligibility mix-up caused the final regular season round’s results changed, with these two sides originally scheduled for separate finals.

Corey Drennan spots a teammate. Photo by Aidan Briggs

When the Blues upset Deni in their first finals game in 2023, it resulted in Tongala claiming the Murray Netball League flag.

If Tonny wishes to repeat that feat they must first get past Nathalia next week, the Purples masterminding their own upset at the weekend, toppling third-placed Finley.