A shorthanded Sunbury has emerged victorious in a top-of-the-table clash against reigning premier North Ballarat City in Ballarat Football Netball League A grade netball.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The win surprised Sunbury coach Adam Boldiston, whose side overcame the absence of starters Tarryn Munro and Ruth Smith to take the match 54-45 at Clarke Oval on Saturday.
Heading into the contest, Boldiston admitted he had no idea how his team would go.
"We weren't expecting to win with the couple of outs we had," he said.
"I knew we'd be challenging them, but the first half took me by surprise."
Defensive pressure and crisp ball movement set the tone for the Lions early in the contest.
After taking an 11-goal lead into half-time, the undermanned squad fended off an aggressive fight back from City which earned the praise of Boldiston after the match.
"We kept our composure and pulled the lead back out to nine, so it was very pleasing signs from the team."
Veteran Lion Lauren Gilchrist proved a standout after slotting in at centre to control the middle of the court. Seventeen-year-old Shelby Holter was superb at goal attack in what was only her fourth start in A grade.
The win cements Sunbury at the top of the ladder alongside East Point with an unblemished four wins from four matches. Boldiston said early signs are positive for the team.
Elsewhere Melton has defeated Darley by 11 goals to win its second in a row after winning its first game since 2017 last week. Bacchus Marsh narrowly defeated Ballarat at Maddingley Park. East Point was an easy winner over Sebastopol, while Lake Wendouree thumped Redan.