By KATIE LAMBESKI
IN a high-quality game between two of the top sides in the VWFL Premier Division, Diamond Creek defeated St Albans at Plenty War Memorial Park on Sunday afternoon, 13.7 (85) to 9.6 (60).
The match was always going to be an indication of the strength of both sides, and the first half developed into a high-scoring pursuit of power.
After the two sides initially went goal for goal, it was the Creekers who continued to work hard around the ball and began to pull away from St Albans to open up a three-goal lead going into half time.
The Spurs needed a better effort from a number of key players to get back into the game and avoid back to back losses.
Both sides looked to enforce their running game when play resumed as two similar styles of play went toe to toe.
Rebekah Sibenaler proved to be the difference though, booting six goals for the Creekers in a dominating performance on the forward line.
The Spurs fought on desperately but were unable to make up the difference as Diamond Creek secured the win by 25 points.
It was the first time the Spurs had lost to Diamond Creek since 2010.
The result sees St Albans slip to third on the Premier Division ladder. The club will have the opportunity to get back on the winners list this week against Scoresby.
Earlier in the day, St Albans’ reserves side secured a comfortable 49-point win over Diamond Creek. The Spurs led at every break, and never gave the Creekers a chance after an even first quarter.
The superior run, carry and spread of the Spurs would be enough to complete a season steadying win.
Rachel Gullo put forward her case for senior selection, kicking five goals while Emily McIntyre was among the best players in the 8.11 (59) to 1.4 (10) victory.