KDL netball | Elimination finals results

Murchison-Toolamba 41

A powerful second half performance from Nagambie has assured it a spot in next weekend's Kyabram District League semi-final action.

The Lakers held off an impressive second-quarter fightback from Murchison-Toolamba, as they raced away in the second half to a 60-41 win.

Yesterday's win at Violet Town Recreation Reserve carries the Lakers into the second weekend of finals action, where Tallygaroopna awaits.

Speaking after the win, Nagambie co-coach Sarah Sanderson said despite the end scoreline, she didn't feel like her side had full control until late in the contest.

"We knew coming in that it would be quite a physical game," Sanderson said.

"And when the game is physical, you never really feel in control.

"So I didn't think we had control up until probably three-quarter time.

"But I'm really happy to get through and grab the win."

Nagambie started the game well and jumped out to a five-goal lead at the first break.

However, Murchison-Toolamba trimmed the lead back in a strong second-quarter performance and almost outscored the Lakers 17-16 in that term.

"I felt we started well, but it was probably a five-minute run in the second quarter that got them back in,'' Sanderson said.

"They got some momentum and really capitalised on our turnovers.

"And it probably just took us a little bit longer to react and get composed, which we did in the second half."

Murchison-Toolamba centre Jess Cunningham played a strong game for the Grasshoppers, while teammate Kelsey McDonald battled hard in defence.

McDonald's opponent and Nagambie goal attack, Sharni Lloyd played a starring role alongside sharpshooter Bianca Willis.

Sanderson praised the performance of Lloyd, who ended up clinching best-on-court honours.

"Sharni is super consistent and you know what you are always going to get from her," she said.

"She is obviously a great attacker, but her defensive work today was great.''

The Nagambie co-leader also gave credit to Willis and wing attack Katie Sullivan.

"I thought Bianca played a great game in goals," she said.

"You can see she's getting heaps of confidence back in her game.

"And I thought Katie in the first half gave us plenty of options through the midcourt."

In the other elimination final, Tallygaroopna proved too strong for Merrigum, running out a 48-27 winner at Longwood Recreation Reserve.

Tally now faces Nagambie in the first semi-final at Undera Recreation Reserve next Sunday.

Meanwhile, Stanhope and Dookie United will fight it out for a spot in the grand final the day before at Nagambie Recreation Reserve.