WILLASTON snapped a three game losing streak on Saturday, comfortably defeating Freeling by 39 goals in Barossa, Light & Gawler senior one netball.
The Donnybrooks had struggled in recent weeks, losing to Barossa District, Gawler Central and Kapunda, all by more than 10 goals.
However, the struggling Redlegs came at the right time for Willaston, and it tore them apart from the getgo.
The Donnybrooks were lethal in the attacking circle, scoring 67 goals while restricting Freeling to just 28.
Willaston coach Kim Walker said she was delighted to get back into the winners’ circle.
“We haven’t had a win for a couple of weeks, we were certainly very happy to not only get the points, but a 39-goal win,” she said.
“I know Freeling has some injuries and are in a bit of a tough spot, but it was a good boost for the girls, particularly when we’re coming up to a team in the top four and can potentially them knock out on Saturday.
“I was happy with the effort in defence, getting touches and rebounds, they (the defenders) read the ball really well.
“We had Amber (Rogers) come in from Sandy Creek due to injuries mid-season and she’s stepped up to the standard of BL&G netball, she’s learning a lot.
“She was a target for us and I think Lisa (Bowman) worked really well with her.
“Lisa’s ability to listen and play the structures we talked about (was excellent).”
The Redlegs close out their season this Saturday against fellow non-finalist Angaston, while Willaston could be the thorn in South Gawler’s side, and knock it out of the finals, depending on Nuriootpa’s result against Tanunda.
However, Walker said the potential to end South’s season isn’t giving her side any extra motivation.
“Not really, I think our motivation is internal to have a good solid game for ourselves and the girls,” she said.
“It’s more about finishing the season strongly, hopefully with a win.”
Around the grounds
Meanwhile, Barossa District continued to prepare for finals netball in style as it knocked off Gawler Central by 10 goals.
The Bulldogs will now play undefeated Kapunda this weekend, with the winner certain to clinch the minor premiership.
The Tigers will have a bye before taking on either South Gawler or Nuriootpa in a cut-throat semi-final.
Elsewhere, Kapunda made short work of Angaston by 26 goals.
Lastly, Nuriootpa kept its finals hopes alive with a stunning two-goal victory over South Gawler.
The Tigers must gather significant percentage on South Gawler with a heavy win over the Magpies this week and hope that the Donnybrooks get the job done to secure a spot in the finals.