Shepparton East has become the first side to secure its spot in the 2026 Kyabram District League A grade netball grand final after claiming victory over Lancaster in the first semi-final at Nagambie Recreation Reserve on Saturday.
The reigning premier, who also claimed the minor premiership with a second successive unbeaten home and away season, did exactly what was expected of it on Saturday, winning through to the grand final at the first time of asking after a dominant year to ensure it will defend its title on the final day of the season, however, the Wombats proved a fierce opponent, pushing the Eagles further than anyone else has this season.
With a 47-43 victory, it was still the Eagles left celebrating after the final whistle on Saturday, clinching the first of the two grand final spots on offer, and deservedly so, with just one win standing between them and back-to-back undefeated premiership seasons.
It was far from one-way traffic, though, with the Wombats still giving a brilliant account of themselves to keep the final margin within five goals – the first time anyone has done so against the fearsome Eagles since round six last season.
It represents a sharp rise from the Wombats, who had lost to East by 19 and 15 goals respectively across the two home and away match ups, with Saturday’s result suggesting that the Eagles might not have everything their way if the two sides meet again in the grand final.
Before that can happen, though, Lancaster will have to beat Nagambie in next Saturday’s preliminary final, after the Lakers claimed victory over Tallygaroopna in another barnstormer on Sunday afternoon.
Entering the second semi-final at Murchison Recreation Reserve having met just once this season, which resulted in a six-goal victory to Tallygaroopna in round 11, the Lakers and Redlegs put on an absolute show, scoring a combined 102 goals in a high-scoring contest.
Level at 21-apiece at half time, the Redlegs surged ahead in the third term to lead by four at the final change, up 34-30, but were unable to hold off a spirited Lakers comeback, as Nagambie fought to level the scores at 44-all at the final siren.
With the momentum behind them, the Lakers surged into the lead as extra time commenced, and didn’t look back from there, prevailing 53-49 to prolong their season for at least another week, while the Redlegs, who finished fourth and beat everyone bar the top two, have been sent packing.
Nagambie’s win sets up a mouthwatering preliminary final clash with Lancaster at Undera Recreation Reserve this Saturday, with one set set to inherit the final spot in the decider, while the other faces a premature end to their year.
The Wombats earned bragging rights in the two sides’ only previous meeting this year, and if the prelim is anything like that contest, it is sure to be a cracking game of netball, with only three goals separating the pair back in round 12.
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