Sunbury Lions hopes of finishing third in the Ballarat Netball League are in their own hands.
A win against Darley in this week’s final round will ensure they finish third while a loss would most likely mean finishing fourth.
The Lions’ match against second-placed North Ballarat City on Saturday proved to be a vital one in terms of ladder position going into the finals.
After an even first quarter, the Lions shot ahead and were able to stay for a 55-49 victory.
Lions captain Beck Anstey said they were set on beating City to make sure they were in control of their own finals fate.
“A lot of people had written us off,” she said. “We had put so much importance on winning against North Ballarat City – we had to win this game or we had to get lucky in the final round.
“If we can win next week against Darley and then win the first final, it gives a bit of breathing space and the double chance.”
Missing players through illness, the Lions knew they needed some experienced players to come in for Saturday’s game. They called on former Lions’ Elly Randall and Chloe Curran. They also had Rupertswood trio Amy Starzer, Ailish McCormack and Alex Maher play.
“I was pretty happy when Chloe showed up [for the start of the second quarter],” said Anstey, who started in attack.
She said coach Karen Meredith was concerned about her lack of shooting impact.
“I was just happy we weren’t down at that stage,” she said.
Anstey, who moved back to her more familiar defensive role after quarter-time, said she had picked up where she left of in terms of playing with Randall, who returned from playing in England four weeks ago.
“Playing with Elly is like riding a bike,” she said.
Curran scored 37 goals, while centre court general Prue Stanley was best on court.
Anstey said her team would need a bit of luck in terms of the timing of the finals.
Three Rupertswood players look like they could qualify to play for the Lions, but those players will also be in finals action in the Riddell District Netball League.
Anstey said the Lions would be blessed with more selection options than had been the case in previous seasons.
“We need to have luck go our way … hopefully we have all bases covers,” she said.
The Lions enter the finals having won their past four games. Anstey said having Meredith take over from her as coach had really helped.
“She’s a fresh set of eyes and sometimes we need someone to call us out for accountability.”
