has now lifted the Ovens and Murray League's A-grade netball trophy 10 times after storming to victory against Wodonga Raiders at Lavington Sports Ground on Sunday. or signup to continue reading A second-quarter surge helped the Pigeons establish a nine-goal buffer at half-time, maintaining the lead to close out the grand final contest 40-32. The defensive pressure of was pivotol in setting up the win for Yarrawonga, with the goal keeper earning the Paula Cary Medal for best on court.
After a slow start to the season, Yarrawonga co-coach Laura Davis admitted the hard conversations were all worth it in the end. "As Bridg (Cassar) said in her speech, we probably had crisis talks at round eight, thinking what's going on?" Davis said. "But all the extra hard work we put in at training and team building has really paid off.
"We gelled and performed like a team so well today." Young Pigeon Kaleisha Pell remained calm and in control to shoot 29 goals, while co-coach Laura Ryan capitalised on intercept opportunities in the midcourt. Taylor Donelan converted 26 goals for Raiders, while centre Maggie St John worked tirelessly across the court.
"It was an extremely tight and well-fought battle," Davis said. "There were times when there were momentum swings, but the girls were able to hold on. "It was really impressive that our older girls were able to maintain that steady head, and we just had these beautiful players throughout the court.
"Kaleisha played unbelievably. She shot so well .