Finals campaigns continue for Wangaratta O&M netball teams

Wangaratta Ovens and Murray netball sides will feature strongly again this weekend after some strong performances in the qualifying and elimination finals last weekend. C grade Magpies held on for a hard-fought win over Rovers 41-34, standing up in the final term when the result was still up for grabs. Magpies A grade coach Shea Cunningham said the club's C graders dug deep to secure the win. "It was especially pleasing to see the composure and teamwork in the final quarter, everyone lifted when it mattered most," Cunningham said. "While Imogen Robinson’s 32 goals were a standout, it was the collective effort across the court that got us over the line. "Lily Cairns was rock-solid in wing defence, Diaz Matthews brought great drive through the midcourt, and Brooke Henwood worked hard to support Imogen in goals. "Their contributions were crucial, but credit also goes to the entire squad for maintaining pressure and intensity throughout." Cunningham said the focus this week will be on refining transitions and maintaining consistency for when they meet Myrtleford on Saturday at the Norm Minns Oval. Rovers C grade coach Deb Doyle said while the team knew it would be a tough challenge against their hometown rivals, she couldn’t be prouder of the way the team competed. "For most of our players, this was their first taste of Ovens and Murray finals, and they experienced first hand the intensity and resilience required at this level," Doyle said. "Right from the first whistle, our defenders set the tone with intercepts, rebounds and tips that kept us in the contest. "We trailed narrowly 12-10 at quarter time. "The second quarter was our strongest quarter, our attackers found rhythm, converting seven centre passes in a row and making the most of defensive rebounds and intercepts. "By half-time, we had edged in front 20-19 after a great all court effort. "In the third quarter, Wang Maggies capitalised on our unforced errors and grabbed back control with a four goal buffer. "Still, our defensive end worked tirelessly to disrupt their flow. "By the final quarter, fatigue began to show. "We continued to force errors and win the ball, but turnovers and missed opportunities allowed Wang Maggie's to push ahead." Best on court were Ella Masters, Mia Eddington, Holly Semmens and Sam Lyster. Rovers C grade takes on Wodonga Raiders this Sunday at Albury Sports Ground. 17 and under Magpies defeated Lavington in a thrilling elimination final 44-41 with momentum shifting throughout the final term. "The girls showed enormous resilience to hold on and finish strong," Cunningham said. "Isabel McMahon was a standout in centre. "Emersen Norton was dynamic through the WA and GA, and Marley Carmody gave us great versatility and composure in the defensive circle. "Maddie and Milli were superb in goals, and Emersen’s ability to contribute both in playmaking and scoring was a real asset. "The whole team deserves credit for staying composed under pressure and supporting each other right to the final whistle. "This week’s focus will be on sharpening our defensive structures and building confidence in our attacking combinations." Magpies meet Myrtleford on Sunday at Albury Sports Ground. Rovers' 17 and under side defeated Myrtleford 53-36. Coach Stacey Lamb said the team have been playing some great netball over the last two years. "We have some amazing talented and dedicated players that really buy into what we are doing at Wangaratta Rovers," Lamb said. "Finals are a different game and a wonderful experience. "We play all year and then the season starts again with a lot more at stake now. "I felt like we played a great game on Saturday and really set the standard from the first whistle. "Sophia Pasquali and Freya Chant always put on a show while Lily Lyster and Sadie Pallegrino are always consistent. "Assistant coach Ellie Miller and I have been working with Brooke Del Mastro on her role in playing centre. "She was fantastic for us running the midcourt and winning defensive ball. "She is fit and smart and well disciplined. "Lily Palmer has been our pillar in defence, supported well by Lainey Draper and Elle Gibson. "Lily has had a great season that saw her get an invitation to trial for the Victorian State team. "We have our captain Annie Harding out with a broken scaphoid but that has not stopped her exceptional leadership. "She runs the warms up, gives support and is a real positive vibe around the team. "To play in a semi final is a real reward for a great season but the hard work starts again. "This is a fabulous time to be playing netball and we will take the opportunity with two hands and really give our best." Rovers will meet Raiders at Norm Minns Oval on Saturday. B grade In B grade Wangaratta, who finished minor premiers, will play Yarrawonga at the Norm Minns Oval on Saturday after the Pigeons defeated North Albury 37-36. "We know it’ll be a tight contest, both sides have shown plenty of brilliance throughout the season but we’ve got full confidence in our group," Cunningham said. "The girls have trained hard, backed each other in, and built a strong sense of teamwork that’s been the backbone of their success. "Every player knows their role, and we trust that when the pressure’s on, our team-first mindset will shine through. "We’re excited, we’re ready, and we’re looking forward to putting out a ripper performance for our club and supporters this weekend."

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