On paper, Cobram certainly posed a stern test for the early-season premiership frontrunners, having chalked up two wins so far this term as they looked to find some consistency in what has been a mercurial start to the season.
But the side from Lonsdale Reserve, who had recorded victories over Congupna, Rumbalara, Numurkah and Finley in the previous four rounds, were in no mood to show mercy to the Tigers, growing into the game before finishing the job in the final quarter with 16 goals in the closing stages to put the result beyond doubt in a convincing 49-30 win.
Cobram made the brighter start, jumping out to an early lead through Paige Gray and settling quickly into the contest.
The home side’s shooting end looked composed early, holding a narrow advantage in the opening stages as the current league ladder leaders worked to find its rhythm.
However, once Mulwala settled, the tide began to turn.
Stephanie Ferguson and Stephanie Hammond combined effectively in the circle, helping Mulwala draw level before pushing ahead late in the first quarter.
From that point on, Mulwala began to assert control and the second term proved a turning point, with the Lions stringing together a strong run of goals to open up a clear buffer.
Ferguson was particularly influential during this period, while Adrienne Templeton added valuable contributions to stretch the margin beyond reach.
The Tigers remained competitive through Brianna Armitage and Aimee Sidebottom, but struggled to match Mulwala’s scoring output but after half-time, Mulwala tightened its grip on the contest.
A sustained burst of goals through the third quarter saw the margin push beyond 10, then 15, as Cobram found it increasingly difficult to generate consistent attacking opportunities.
Despite moments of resistance, Mulwala’s defensive pressure through the midcourt limited supply into Cobram’s shooters.
By the final term, the result was effectively decided as the visitors continued to capitalise on their opportunities, with Ferguson and Hammond maintaining their accuracy to extend the lead beyond 20 goals.
Cobram fought the game out, with Armitage adding late goals, but was unable to close the gap as it fell to a third defeat of the season.
Elsewhere in round five, Rumbalara earned all four points after Echuca United forfeited its home game, as Nathalia strengthened its own title charge with a 62-36 win over Moama.
In addition, the Deniliquin Rams defeated Numurkah 45-48 in a tight contest, as Finley earned a crucial 38-34 win on the road at Congupna in a first victory of the campaign.
Meanwhile, potential premiership challengers Tongala had to wait a week to continue its title tilt during its bye week.
