Jokers have last laugh in upset win

Jokers 1 firmed as genuine finals contenders courtesy of an upset seven-goal win over top-four side Narrikup 1 in round 10 of the Albany Netball Association A1 competition on Saturday afternoon.

After finishing seventh in the top-tier division last season, Jokers 1 had managed only three wins in the first nine games of 2015, but claimed their biggest scalp so far with a strong first half.

Forwards Pippa Barrows and Erin McDonald-Lee worked hard in the goal circle and converted at a good rate to give Jokers 1 a terrific start.

Ellen Smith was important in centre court for the winners and Tanya Tapscott also provided great drive as their side ran out victors, 44-37.

Narrikup 1 were in the contest throughout but were never able to take total control of the game despite the best efforts of Taylah Orzel, Tamania Jones and shooter Ruby Bigwood.

The win pushed Jokers 1 to fifth spot on the ladder and just two points outside the top four with four rounds remaining.

Royals Saints 1 also kept their finals hopes alive with a 14-goal victory over Grammar 1, extending their advantage at every change.

Suzie Mier was sensational in the goal circle, rarely missing while younger sister Chelsi Mier provided great support.

Aloma Pickett was busy throughout for the winners and defenders Jess Jackson and Lisa Amess were also solid in the 37-23 loss.

Grammar trailed by four goals at half-time but fell away in the second half despite Bridgette Latham and Tayla Smeathers working hard.

Meanwhile, Kangas 1 set up their 18-goal win over Kangas 2 with a dominant 20-goal second term.

Sisters Elle and Marcia Trevenen were clinical up forward as Kangas 1 netted 20 goals to 10 and blew the margin out to 12 goals by half-time. From there Kangas 1 were able to extend the margin and finish comfortable winners, 54-36.

In the other round 10 match Magpies 1 downed Bullets, 50-28, to remain in second place on the ladder.