"Mum, be strong and don't have a draw," Willow, 5, said on Saturday morning.

It sounds cute - but for Camperdown - Willow's words were all too real.

The Magpies have already finished tied with opposition twice from just seven matches this season, and in the dying moments on Saturday, found itself in an all too familiar position.

But Richardson's side managed to climb over the line, recording a 54 to 52 victory in a major relief for the finals fancy.

"It was a tight game from start to finish," Richardson said. "They played really well and it was a must-win for us really because we've had the two draws.

"Holly Phillips was playing really well for them and our challenge was to (cut the supply into the goal circle). We took a bit long to do that but got it done."

Richardson said Camperdown's attackers - Amanda Clark and Krystal Baker - combined well and led from the front. The Magpies trailed early and only crept in front in the final term, but Richardson felt her side's defensive pressure kept it in the hunt. As for Willow? She might be one to watch at Leura Oval in years to come.

"She absolutely loves netball. She had a bit of pocket money and bought some cones to do some drills at home," Richardson said.

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