Roos continue to fine-tune game as finals near
By Kieran Iles
The Bendigo Times
WHILE there was a lot to like about Kangaroo Flat’s 23-goal win over South Bendigo last Saturday - and even some moments of brilliance - Roos coach Jayden Cowling admits there are still things to be worked on ahead of finals.
The Roos withstood a spirited challenge from the finals-bound Bloods, particularly early in the contest, but were able to pull away for a convincing 72-49 victory in a scoreline Cowling described as not indicative of the closeness of the battle.
Their 12th straight victory has put the Roos within two wins of completing a perfect home and away the season.
Should they defeat Eaglehawk this weekend and South Bendigo again the following week, Kangaroo Flat would become the first team since Sandhurst in 2023 to complete an unbeaten home and away season.
The last team to go unbeaten through an entire season was Golden Square in 2015.
With a full squad now at their disposal, free of VNL and Super Netball Reserves commitments, the Roos took advantage of a solid opportunity to fine-tune their game before finals against a quality opponent.
“There was only a few goals in it for a lot of the first half, and in the second quarter they got it back to even, so the end scoreline definitely didn’t reflect the game,” Cowling said.
“We felt challenged for a full 60 minutes.
“I think they (the Bloods) can be a dangerous side come finals.
“We realised pretty early we had a game on our hands, but the girls were pumped for the challenge.
“It was a good test.”
A major factor in the Bloods’ competitiveness was the goaling combination of Bendigo Strikers teammates Gabe Richards and Bridgette Furphy in a rare performance together in red and white.
The pair will be undoubted keys for the Bloods as they look to advance beyond the elimination final for the first time in more than 20 years later this month.
Entering the game after half-time, Ella Flavell impacted strongly in the midcourt for the Bloods.
Due to the unevenness of the draw, Kangaroo Flat and South Bendigo will get another look at each other in a fortnight’s time.
The Roos will first need to negotiate fifth-placed Eaglehawk this weekend.
They will go into the clash at Dower Park with plenty of players in form.
Betty Thompson medallists Chelsea Sartori and Ash Ryan led the way in the midcourt against the Bloods, while the introduction of Teal Hocking at goal shooter in the second half opened up the Roos’ attacking end.
Ruby Barkmeyer continued her stellar 2025 season form with another big performance at goal attack.
Approaching the end of a stop-start home and away season, Cowling said his side was pumped for a big final series.
The Roos are searching for their first A-grade premiership since 2016.
“We can’t wait. I think after the weekend, everyone has that finals feeling. The weather has started to turn nicer and now that VNL has finished, all of our girls are in full-Flat mode,” Cowling said.
“It’s the best time of year, especially after such an intense game on Saturday.
“The girls are pumped to work hard these next few weeks in preparation for finals.”
Eaglehawk will be aiming for an improved effort against the Roos this Saturday, coming off a 42-goal loss to Sandhurst in the only other game played last Saturday.
The Hawks have not troubled the Roos this season, losing 70-17 in round two and 74-33 in round nine.
Round 14 recap: Golden Square 19 lost to Gisborne 66; Kangaroo Flat 72 defeated South Bendigo 49; Sandhurst 66 defeated Eaglehawk 24.
Round 15: Gisborne v Strathfieldsaye; Kangaroo Flat v Eaglehawk; Golden Square v Sandhurst; South Bendigo (bye).
