Emerald has a laser-focused sight on a double-chance as the Bombers comfortably knocked off ROC at Rob Porter Reserve in round 15 of the Outer East Premier Division A Grade Netball competition.
The visitors created a five-goal buffer at quarter time and extended it to 11 at the main intermission, 32-21.
Emerald’s scoring was prolific and consistent throughout the contest, a trend that rolled into the second half and saw the Bombers grab 15 or more goals in every period.
At three-quarter time, the visitors had widened the gap to 47-34.
A strong final term guided Emerald home 62-44.
Jackie Cutting starred and Krista Tomlinson and Casey Rhodes-Anderson provided excellent output in the victory.
For the Kangaroos, Lily O’Kelly, Mitzi Henry and Leah Mibus were valiant in defeat.
The win put the Bombers within two ladder points of third place.
However, Monbulk’s convincing 63-51 win at Woori Yallock ensured the Hawks kept their noses in front on the ladder.
Away from home, Monbulk led at every change and never relinquished the lead, setting up a monumental clash between the Hawks and Emerald this week in the Bombers’ Ladies Day.
Gembrook Cockatoo had its best performance of the season but fell just short against Upwey Tecoma, going down 54-45.
Brylee O’Neil, Carla Crowley and Mary Miles fought all day but the Tigers were too strong in the end.
Ladder-leaders Mount Evelyn disposed of Olinda Ferny Creek 67-31 on the Bloods’ home court.
Wandin continues to follow hot on the Rovers’ heels as the Bulldogs mauled Healesville 75-34 to sit firmly in second.
In Division 1 round 16, Pakenham showed admirable grit in grinding out a 51-44 triumph over Yarra Glen at Toomuc Reserve.
After the Lions held a 14-8 advantage at the first break, a stifling defensive quarter from the River Pigs saw them hit the front in the second for a short period but ultimately fall behind by one at the main break.
Pakenham regrouped to push the difference back out to six goals at the last change, before getting on top in an arm-wrestle fourth to claim the four premiership points.
Kelly Cousins was outstanding on the day and she received fantastic supporting performances from Caitlin Cooke and Millicent Utber.
Alexandra came from behind and edged out Yarra Junction to claim an important 49-47 result at home.
The Rebels were down by three goals at halftime before squaring things up at the final intermission.
The hosts wrestled the momentum at the right time and drew even with the Eagles on the ladder for the last finals spot.
Warburton Millgrove was far too dominant for Yea as the Burras grabbed a 64-29 decisive win at home.
Seville was everywhere against Powelltown and the Blues cruised to a 89-16 triumph.
Belgrave had the bye.
