Diamonds Set Up Top of Table Clash

The WA Diamonds have set up a clash of the titans today following a 3-2 win over the Victorian Vipers in Melbourne yesterday. The Diamonds now face the only other undefeated side in the competition, the NSW Arrows who geared up for the clash with a 6-1 romp over Tasmania.

The Diamonds were forced to chase their game after Dutch national Carla Bond found space to strike home a field goal for the Vipers on ten minutes. The Diamonds over came the home side’s venomous start however, with two goals in five minutes to WAIS scholarship holder Lisa Eglington handing back the initiative to the top of the table Diamonds.

With the first half drawing to a close, the WA Diamonds were offered the perfect chance to extend their lead after it was awarded a penalty corner. The set piece found its way to WAIS athlete Shelly Liddelow who fired the WA team to a two goal advantage.

The Vipers threw all-caution to the wind in the second half and unleashed a deluge of attacks on the Diamonds goal, with the defence stretched to its limits to prevent the Vipers from finding a way back into the contest.

On 58 minutes the Vipers found the goal they were searching for when Claire Messent scored a well taken field goal. The Vipers continued to press but lacked a cutting edge against one of the best rear guard defences in the league. The 3-2 success saw WA continue its unbeaten streak to 10 matches.

The Diamonds now turn their attention towards the NSW Arrows who sit second on the AHL standings. The victor will head into the finals with confidence and bragging rights, whilst the defeated face a potentially more difficult route in the semi-finals.