MNL | Rumbalara falls to high-flying Eagles

By Alexander Dabb and Bransen Gibson

Apr 23, 2023

Rumbalara's Yilanii Atkinson looks for a teammate down the court during her side’s surprise loss to Echuca United. Photo by Steve Huntley

Rumbalara has stumbled at the Eagles’ nest after falling to Echuca United by nine goals on Saturday afternoon.

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United missed out on finals last season, but they were too good for 2022 grand finalists Rumba on this occasion, prevailing 35-24.

It was a tough result for Rumba, but it came on a special day between the two clubs.

The Eagles debuting their new clash dresses that incorporate an Indigenous design, while before the game, a Welcome to Country ceremony was held.

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Winners: Echuca United put their first win on the board for season 2023 against Rumbalara, doing so in the Eagles’ new clash strip that features an Indigenous design by proud Bangerang woman Dede Atkinson. Photos: Steve Huntley Photo by Steve Huntley

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Best-on-court: Eagles captain Jess Davidson won the Wanganeen medal for best-on-court. Photo by Steve Huntley

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Good vision: United's Emily Cossar looks to pass the ball. Photo by Steve Huntley

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Good pass: Tessa Bruni looks to offload the ball to a teammate. Photo by Steve Huntley

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Tough contest: Eagles A-grade coach Jess Saunders and Rumbalara's Jessica Bamblett fight for possession. Photo by Steve Huntley

United coach Jess Saunders acknowledged the new clash design, saying it was an initiative the group was honoured to be a part of.

“The girls were extremely proud to play in our new clash dresses, featuring an Indigenous design by Dede Atkinson,” Saunders said.

United captain Jess Davidson put together a dazzling display to earn the Wanganeen Medal for best-on-court, a new prize that was introduced ahead of the meeting.

Rumbalara is 1-3 to start the new season as the team looks to start a new chapter with a younger group of players.

Elsewhere, Congupna has staved off a spirited performance from Tocumwal to triumph by three goals.

The Road prevailed 45-42 over the Bloods, but the team was made to work hard for its second win of the season – a result that lifts Congupna into sixth spot on the ladder.

Tocumwal is still yet to put a mark in the win column this season, but the Bloods have showed steady improvement each week with the margins getting smaller and smaller.

Deniliquin and Tongala are continuing to lead the way after they continued their unbeaten runs.

The Rams bested Mulwala 53-31, while Tongala was too good for Cobram 53-23.

Nathalia topped Numurkah 39-36, while Finley prevailed against Barooga 42-32 in the weekend’s other results.