WALLAN’S netballers lost their place atop the Riddell District Football Netball League A Grade ladder after a four-goal upset loss to Diggers Rest on Saturday.
The Magpies were the sole undefeated team in the league entering round six, but were immediately on the back foot against the Burras.
Trailing by four goals at quarter time and five at the major break, Wallan produced a 10-goals-to-seven third term to claw its way back into the game.
In a frantic final quarter Diggers Rest did just enough to preserve its narrow lead, running out with a 39-35 win.
The Magpies’ task will not be any easier this week, with a showdown against new ladder leader Riddell looming at Greenhill Reserve.
Romsey is the only remaining team without a win after a hard-fought but ultimately fruitless battle against Melton Centrals at the weekend.
The Redbacks and Blues were each in search of a breakthrough victory, and Melton Centrals grabbed the early ascendancy with a 12-5 opening term.
Romsey stabilised to break even in the second quarter and won the third term by a goal, but could make no more headway and ultimately went down 40-31.
Goal shooter Hope Evans was a standout in the loss with 18 goals and Samantha Richardson gave the team drive in the midcourt, while defender Abbey Duggan matched up well on Melton Centrals’ Emma Winzar.
Lancefield had a tough outing against Macedon, going down 61-34.
Jordan Furness continued her outstanding season at goal shooter with 29 goals for the Tigers, who continued to experiment with their line-up throughout the match.
Furness was the only player not to change positions during the day as eight other players saw court time in multiple positions.
Lancefield will travel to take on Woodend-Hesket on Saturday, with Romsey hosting Western Rams.
