MNL | Eagles fall in one-goal thriller

By Josh Huntly

Aug 7, 2022

Up in the air: Players fly for the ball in a thrilling Murray Netball League encounter between Echuca United and Mulwala. Photo: Steve Huntley Photo by Steve Huntley

Echuca United came close to knocking off finals-bound Mulwala on Saturday, but the Lions held their nerve at the Eagles’ nest to steal a narrow Murray Netball League win.

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United, three goals down with two minutes to play, made a last-gasp effort to chase down the Lions before the siren beat it to the punch, falling 44-43.

With a confirmed ticket to finals on the line for Mulwala, the Lions came out roaring, but the Eagles’ determination saw them go goal-for-goal with the visitors for most of the contest.

Trailing by three goals heading into the final quarter, the Eagles piled on the first four goals before the classy Lions fetched back the lead, holding on to it from there to claim their eighth win of the year.

Tilly Keenan, Hayley Saville and Jess Saunders led the way for the Eagles.

The win for Mulwala all but finalises the Murray Netball League A-grade top six for 2022.

The Lions move two games clear of seventh-placed Finley with two rounds remaining following the Cats’ 28-goal loss to Nathalia at the weekend, with the Purples still in the hunt for a top-two finish.

Mulwala faces Finley in round 17 looking to wrap up the top six, while the Eagles’ road to the end of the season sees them face second-placed Rumbalara.

By Josh Huntly