By Justin Flynn
With three rounds remaining before finals, South Barwon coach Billy Mahoney believes the Geelong Netball League A Grade top five is as even as you can get.
The Swans are in second spot on the ladder, level on points with St Joseph’s and a game clear of Newtown & Chilwell.
They can’t finish lower than third, which means a guaranteed double chance, but Mahoney said top spot was not a huge focus, but would be nice if it happened.
“You always strive to finish as high as you can,” Mahoney said.
“I believe we can’t finish lower than third, but the top five is very even. Any team in the top five can beat each other on their day.”
South Barwon finishes the home and away season with Bell Park, Newtown & Chilwell and Geelong West.
“Any team we come up against is a good test for us,” Mahoney said.
“All those teams are capable of playing well on the day. I’m looking forward to every single game that’s coming our way from now to the finals. Every game is going to be a challenge and it’s a very good lead in.
“We just have to make sure our girls come with their minds in the right place. Like I said, the top five could go any way. Every team has key players and our girls are firing at the moment.”
The Swans defeated Leopold by 23 goals to round off the split round 15.
“I thought it was such a team effort,” Mahoney said.
“Everyone played their role. I couldn’t really single anyone out. After the St Joseph’s game, I felt they all played so well together.”
Defender Eloise Maddox was named best for the Swans while shooter Ellen Doyle and defender Maddison McKiernan were also good.
For Leopold, goal shooter Natalie Heagney, wing attack Amelia Holland and midcourter Darcy Wilson were named best.
BELL PARK defeated Lara in the other split-round game 58 to 45. Goal attack Rebecca Trenerry, midcourter Emma Hawker and goal shooter Bridgette Furphy were best for the Panthers. Goal defence Rikki Van Gemert played a stellar game for Lara.
