Three-way battle for minor premiership intensifies in Eastern Goldfields Netball Association’s top division

Eastern Goldfields Netball Association’s upcoming division one finals loom as the closest in years as Sonix 1, Imperials 1 and Rookies 1 jostle for the minor premiership. With just three rounds of qualifiers left, all three teams are locked on seven wins. Sonix 1 hold top position by percentage after they last weekend held off a gallant Rookies 1 by 34-32. Rookies 1 boasted a two-game lead in the standings a fortnight ago but have lost their past two games to now sit third. Also last weekend, Imperials 1 were decisive winners against Mana 1, 57-47. Sonix 1 are the defending premiers who are this season chasing a fourth flag in five seasons. They were also premiers in 2021 and 2022 but were denied a rare title hat-trick in 2023 in a grand final loss against Rookies. EGNA is this week hosting a PLAY4BCNA Pink Sports Day, as a fundraiser for breast cancer. The initiative began on Thursday and continues through the Friday night and Saturday fixtures. Association board member Aaron Doab said all players, officials and spectators were encouraged to support the initiative by wearing pink this weekend. For more than 10 years, Breast Cancer Network Australia has enabled sporting clubs, schools, associations and leagues nationwide to raise awareness and funds for those affected by breast cancer through its Pink Sports Day Program. Each year, more than 20,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in Australia. Results: Division 1: Sonix 1 d Rookies 1 34-32; Imperials 1 d Mana 1 57-47. Division 2: Mana 2 d Rookies 2 44-37; Sonix 2 d Imperials 2 44-29. Division 3: Rookies 3 d Steelers 3 64-34; Mana 3 d Imperials 3 59-14; Sapphires 1 1 53-40; Sonix 4 and Sonix 3 drew 54-54. Division 4: Imperials 4 d Sonix 5 34-30; Rookies 4 Sapphires 2 56-34; Goldstrikers d Mana 4 41-35.