LAKE Wendouree has continued its dominance over rivals East Point.
The Lakers opened their Ballarat Football League senior netball finals campaign with a five-goal win in Saturday’s qualifying encounter at Eastern Oval.
Lake Wendouree, who defeated the Kangaroos twice during the regular season, had to fight back from a seven-goal deficit at half time to prevail 53-48.
A strong third term had the Lakers leading by one goal at the final change, before they outscored their opponents 14-10 in the last quarter.
Coach Sally McLean said her side’s defensive pressure and intensity lifted in the third term.
“We are pleased to have the win, (but) obviously we would have preferred not in that manner, having been seven goals down.
“We will look at our start and how we can change that second quarter deficit,” McLean said.
“There’s room for improvement, I’d say.”
Gina McCartin was one of the Lakers’ best performers in an even team display, netting 22 goals from her role at goal attack, as was Kirsty Walsh, who was moved into centre at half time.
Catherine Maika was integral in East Point’s early lead, and finished with 38 of her team’s goals.
Lake Wendouree will play Melton for a spot in the grand final this coming weekend.
The Bloods defeated Darley in yesterday’s eliminator to progress to the second week of finals.
Meanwhile, Bacchus Marsh produced an upset, ending the season of reigning premiers Redan.
The Cobras, who finished sixth, will take on East Point in this Sunday’s first semi final.