BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT
Even with the Gippsland League only featuring three matches due to a split round, some cracking contests still went ahead.
If there wasn’t any doubt that Drouin could be the best side in it currently, at least for the regular season, the Hawks downed reigning three-time premier Moe.
The Hawks secured the 51 to 49 win at Drouin Recreation Reserve, marking their first victory over the Lions in more than three years.
The home side dug deep against a steadfast opponent, with Moe still getting ultra close despite their continuously rotated line-up, especially in attack.
Hawks newcomer Mwai Purwenda Mbwana was too much for the Lions defence, finishing with a match-high 34 goals, followed by Charlize Traumanis with 16.
Lauren Spinks arrived up from the lower grades, scoring 27 goals for Moe, supported by Emma McMillan with 22.
The veteran, Stacie Gardiner was instrumental to the winning result for Drouin, while Olivia Barnett was noted for the Lions.
Traralgon secured its first four points, taking down Warragul, 60-26 at Traralgon Showgrounds.
The Maroons, who had been up-and-down in their previous games, including a draw against Sale, started with their best quarter to date.
The young Traralgon outfit shot out 19 goals to six to begin, and continued on during the second term to lead by 20 at halftime.
The Gulls, noticeably dealing with their own struggles, weren’t able to turn it around in the second half, going down by worse.
Lara Noblett led the scoring charge with 33 goals for the Maroons, followed by Emma White (18) and Hannah Smith (8).
Stacey Jacobsen and Marley Wallace turned it on further up the court, while Warragul playing coach Sienna Green, Ruby Fullgrabe and Sophie Fennell did their best.
Wonthaggi got by against Maffra thanks to a brilliant third quarter.
The Power passed the Eagles, 45-39 at Maffra Recreation Reserve, with Chelsea Bowman and Kathyrn Scott undeniable at the post with 28 and 13 goals respectively.
The rest of Round 6 plays out this weekend, with classic Latrobe Valley showdown between Moe and Morwell, Leongatha pitted against Sale, and Drouin taking on Bairnsdale.
Image: Warragul Drouin Gazette
