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 and was so agile and athletic. "And at the other end, Em Laracy was taking intercepts that we would never expect her to get "It was full team effort, all 12 girls got us there.
" , claiming the win on her daughter Eloise's second birthday. "She's having a ripper," Davis laughed. After finishing as the minor premiers for the first time in the club's history this season, and making a second consecutive grand final, Raiders' coach Jodie House admitted her side will only gain more determination from the defeat.
"We are proud, and we just spoke about the building process," House said. "I know they get sick of hearing it, but the more they're exposed to this intensity and level of netball, the better they get at it. "We see improvement in them from last year.
"They've all put their hands up and they're keen to come back next year. "Yes it will hurt, but let's put it in perspective, it's a game and we just keep fighting and try again next year." Earlier in the day, defeating Myrtleford 36-28.
Brylee Carkeek was rewarded for her efforts with the best on court medal. , defeating Rovers 55-43 in a standout game by Molly Moylan. It was also the Bulldogs' day in the B-grade, with Wodonga defeating Myrtleford 50-44.
Bulldogs' midcourter Alannah Foley topped it off with an individual medal for her performance. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis.
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