Solid effort: Emily Cossar (pictured against Tongala) was influential in Echuca United’s loss to Deniliquin. Photo: Nicole Connelly
Since defeating second-placed Tongala a fortnight ago, Echuca United has not registered a win in the Murray Netball League A-grade competition.
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The Eagles’ loss to Rumbalara last week was compounded by a 17-goal loss to reigning premier Deniliquin at the weekend, meaning United has slipped to sixth on the ladder.
“It was a tough loss,” Eagles co-coach Kate Donehue said following the 58-41 defeat.
“However, we knew it was always going to be (tough) against the top side.
“Deni are a team everyone strives to be like.”
A poor opening quarter did much of the damage, although Donehue was pleased with how her side responded.
Consistent: Kate Pearson (pictured against Tongala) was praised by co-coach Kate Donehue for her efforts in the loss. Photo: Nicole Connelly
“We didn’t start well, but the next three quarters we matched up against them really well,” she said.
Wing attack Emily Cossar was strong all day for the Eagles, as was goal shooter Kate Pearson, who played a consistent game.
In dropping to sixth, the Eagles must win in the final home-and-away season to make sure of a finals position, as they sit just one game ahead of Congupna in seventh.
United hosts Cobram (5-12) next weekend in a game it is widely expected to win, although a slip-up could mean it misses finals if The Road were to defeat Tongala.
A win will qualify the Eagles automatically for the finals regardless of other results, however with just 3 per cent difference in current percentages, a Congupna upset combined with a United loss means missing is a definite possibility.
There is no doubt the Eagles will be doing everything in their power to prevent that scenario from happening.
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