MCUE makes statement they're still the benchmark with win at Griffith | Photos

The Swans became the first team to beat the Goannas since the 2018 season with a one-goal win in round three at Mangoplah.

But a second-half surge after leading by only a goal at half-time allowed MCUE to inflict the first defeat on the Swans this year, and put themselves in poll position in the minor premiership race.

The Goannas are now 9-1 with their next opponent Coolamon (9-1-1) and Griffith (eight wins, two draws one loss) close behind.

MCUE was boosted by the return of goal attack Sophie Fawns, who came back into the fold a week early after the 19 and under national championships were again cancelled due to COVID.

But coach Marie Hope said shifting Ash Reynoldson from goal keeper to goal shooter was the key factor in the second half.

"It obviously makes a big difference having Sophie Fawns back in the team. But in the second half playing Ash Reynoldson at goal shooter (was important)," Hope said.

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"She was playing the first half at goalkeeper and having a blinder, but going down to shooter for the second half allowed us to tear away.

"I felt like we needed that added connection that Ash brings. She has a strong body presence and attack on the ball, vertical leap and is such a skilful player.

"Having that connection complement what Sophie does very well and we had two strong avenues at goal."

Hope said they were devastated Fawns had been denied a chance to represent NSW in two straight years.

"We're devastated for her, being deprived of being part of a national tournament two years in a row is pretty tough," she said.

In other matches, Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong won the battle for a top five spot over Collingullie-Glenfield Park in a 42-41 thriller, Coolamon brushed aside Leeton-Whitton 57-36 and Turvey Park stayed in the finals hunt with a 53-39 win at Narrandera.

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