WITH 15 rounds of competition in the books, the Riverland Netball Association’s 2025 finals series has officially arrived.
The focus firmly shifts in particular to the A1 competition, where three sides will look to win the premiership back from the brute force Loxton has become.
The Tigers triumphed by just one goal in a double overtime thriller in the 2024 decider that had to be seen to be believed, and continued that momentum into this year.
Loxton completed the home-and-away season in undefeated fashion, proving unimpacted by the loss of superstar Summer Smith, with recruit Tarnie Shinnick slotting into the side seamlessly.
Shinnick, goalkeeper Leah Uren, and defender Bailey Hahn, have been brilliant on the defensive end all season, while midcourters Elise Lange and Shenae Rucioch have both compiled superb campaigns.
In attack, star shooter Mackella Hogan has been unstoppable at times, while Aimee Holmes has also frequently poured in the goals.
Loxton will take on intertown rivals Loxton North in this Friday’s qualifying final, and North is desperate for revenge after last year’s heartbreaker.
Although competition best and fairest Ella Anderson departed the region last off-season, North have been a consistent side right throughout the year, and look to be well balanced across the court.
Maddie Groth is in a hot run of form, highlighted by a 42-goal effort against Renmark on Friday night, while captain Brooke Pietrolaj has controlled the mid-court in outstanding fashion.
Goalkeeper Paris Lawrie has been superb at the defensive end, and will be a key piece to her side’s premiership hopes.
Meanwhile, Friday night’s elimination final sees Barmera take on Berri, with the Lakesiders hoping to add to an incredible season.
Barmera tasted victory on just one occasion in 2024, but new coach Lyn Wutke has her side in strong form, coming off of a two-goal win over Berri last Friday.
It’s a result which will provide a lot of confidence heading into this week’s do-or-die clash, although Berri will relish the chance to play on home court.
Elsewhere, A2 finals action is also primed for a tight finish, and Barmera is in prime position to secure the premiership, having enjoyed an undefeated campaign.
Barmera will take on Loxton in the qualifying final, while reigning premier Berri will do battle with Waikerie.