By LUKE SCHUYLER
Three rounds out from Wimmera Netball Association finals and the race for third spot on the ladder is wide open.
Ararat and Warrack Eagles are safely entrenched in the top two, but the other double chance is still to be decided.
Stawell holds a narrow edge over an in-form Horsham by two points, with Horsham Saints a further two points away in fifth place.
All three appear likely to make finals with a comfortable lead over the chasing field, but in what order, provides an intriguing run home to finals.
This weekend’s matches will provide a much better indication, especially when the Saints host Stawell.
Horsham Saints coach Nano Magee said this was a crucial match for the side in a late bid to finish top-three.
“We won six games in a row and then we came up against Ararat and Warrack in consecutive weeks and lost,” she said.
“So I’m hoping we can get back to basics and manage to beat a top three side in Stawell.
“I believe we need to beat Stawell to be able to finish top-three, which is our aim because it provides that safety net of a double chance,” she said.
“If we don’t, then we’ll end up fourth or fifth.”
Magee hoped the two losses had not dented the side’s confidence and was determined to turn the corner this weekend.
“When we were playing really well during our six straight wins, we had an even contribution and all players were doing their bit,” she said.
“We need to get back to that this weekend for four quarters against Stawell because it’s a big game for us.”
Stawell’s confidence also copped a battering on the weekend, totally outclassed by premiership favourite Ararat.
Grace Jensz continued her stellar form and had support from Jessie Antonio. Both players will be crucial to the outcome of this match on the weekend.
Horsham will attempt to keep the pressure on with success against Horsham United.
The Demons have been in outstanding touch recently and can ruffle some feathers in the finals if they continue to play in this manner.
In the other matches for the round, Ararat will prove too strong for Nhill and Warrack should account for Dimboola.