Shepparton United was once again pipped at the finish after losing a tough and tight encounter with Mansfield — a new side in the league for 2024 — at Bonnie Doon on Sunday afternoon.
United coach Grant Searle said his side was left to rue missed opportunities late in the match.
“It was a tough and physical affair,” he said.
“We missed our chances; we had many shots on goal in the last quarter and were unable to convert.
“We started to get our game going and a bit of a run on; we just lacked the ability to convert, which was our biggest downfall.”
The match finished in Mansfield’s favour, 4.6 (30) to 3.8 (26), as Shepparton lost its second close match for the season (the first against Echuca by eight points in round one), but Searle was proud of his side’s effort as he made note of some impressive performances.
“We had plenty of standouts on the day Melissa Foster, Melissa Freestone, Caitlin Ross and some of our junior girls were able to step up and help us out by filling in, which was great,” he said.
“(The focus at training this week) It will be several things.
“We will work on physical toughness, goal kicking and overall fitness level.”
In other matches, Nathalia continued its undefeated run with a 68-point victory over Tatura at home.
The competition’s other undefeated side, Echuca, was dominant in its victory over Nagambie, winning by 141 points to finish the round on top of the ladder.
In the final match of the round, Barooga defeated Rumbalara by 32 points, 7.9 (51) to 3.1 (19).
The Hawks took control of the match after half-time, kicking 35 points to zero.
In the girls’ competition, Shepparton United continued its winning streak with a 104-point victory over Nathalia.
Echuca United defeated Barooga by 88 points away from home.
Shepparton Swans won their match against Moama through a forfeit.
