On Sunday, the Murray Bombers ramped up preparations for the season ahead as they competed in the atWork Australia Cup.
Echuca managed to breeze through their pool games against Benalla, Mooroopna and Wodonga to earn a place in the grand final.
Unfortunately, Shepparton United — who they will meet during the Northern Country Women’s League season — proved to be too good in the decider.
But coach Damian Dalziel wasn’t too concerned about the result.
“The day was fantastic and winning the trophy would have just been a bonus,” he said.
“The girls were buggered after playing those first three games. We haven’t really had the opportunity to train in those scenarios.
“I thought everyone played well, considering we threw some players into unknown positions.
“We only had a short break between our last game and the final, which was telling in the end.
“Shepparton United, with their young and fresh legs, were able to run us off the ground.”
Dalziel said the day provided his players with the opportunity to shake off the rust after the 2020 season was cancelled.
“Everyone wasn’t too sure what to expect in the lead-up because no one has played a game in so long,” he said.
“But I was really pleased with our hardness at the ball and player. Our tackling pressure was fantastic throughout the day.
“I thought we moved the ball really well in patches, which has me excited for what’s ahead.”
The season is set to start on Sunday, March 14 but the fixture is yet to be released.
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