Netball
29 August, 2025
Horsham, Dimboola set for showdown in WFNL qualifying final
Horsham and Dimboola meet for the third time this season, a game that's been circled on the calendar for many weeks.
Horsham and Dimboola meet for the third time this season, a game that's been circled on the calendar for many weeks.
The Demons and Roos have been neck and neck all season, finishing with 12 wins apiece, including one home win against the other.
On Saturday, August 30, the sides will meet for a third time, with a chance to earn a place in the all-important second semi-final on September 6.
In a rare twist of fate, Dimboola host the Demons, something Roo's coach, Ant Toet, said motivated the team to finish in the top three.
"A home final has been a real focus for us," she said.
"Knowing that you can have a double chance motivated us to chase that top three finish."
Toet acknowledged that while beating Horsham at home was important, it was games earlier in the season that set the tone.
"I think that first game against the Thunder was a turning point," she said.
"We were down by nine at quarter time. We fought back and really put together what we'd been thinking in the first half of the season.
"When we first played Demons in about round eight, we got within three. That really sparked the girls."
According to Toet, their Round 14 victory over Horsham was crucial for securing a top-three spot.
However, she emphasised that playing in the finals introduces an entirely different level of competition.
"Finals are a different ball game," she said.
"Most of that team have played together or experienced finals before.
"We did beat the Demons at home last time, but you can't underestimate your opposition."
Key contests across the court include the match-up between Dimboola's Olivia Beugelaar and Ebonie Salter at one end, and Imogen Worthy and Bridget Dorrington at the other.
"You've got to adjust and you've got to adjust quickly," Toet said.
"You have to adjust to different umpires, the weather's going to be different, and the pressure of the final situation.
"The team that can get on top and stay on top and keep their head for four quarters will prevail."
