GRAND FINAL
Victoria (9) defeated by NSW (24)
Netball Central | Gadigal People of the Eora Nation
After a blockbuster three days of Marie Little Shield action, we secured the silver medal in an epic Grand Final performance. Securing our spot in the grand final earlier in the day thanks to a strong performance against South Australia, we came into the match with plenty of energy and belief. Our strong connections were on show as we left nothing out on the court, in what was a highly competitive Grand Final against NSW despite falling agonisingly short.
The intensity was up from the first minute of the game with both sides working in overdrive to claim the upper hand. It was goal for goal to start the game before NSW got the early break. But we showed our fighting spirit and tenacity, credit to some huge defensive plays from Sky and Lucy. Grace impressed with her dare, closing speed and hands over pressure.
Renay and Rachael commanded the ball through the midcourt, especially around circle edge to allow Emma and Erin to inch closer to the post and add some scoreboard pressure. But NSW continued to hold sway despite some strong efforts from our Vic side, going into half time up by five goals.
Looking to shake things up in the second half Bianca came on in wing defence while Ehlana pulled on the goal shooter bib and Holly entered the game in wing attack. We steadily chipped away at NSW with our pressure helping to create turnovers across the court.
Heading into the final term, Emma impressed with her versatility in goal defence while 10-year veteran Renay, proved she can do it all, nailing a couple of crucial goals. Our never say-die attitude enabled us to create tips and deflections as we secured the silver medal in thrilling display of netball.
GAME 6
Victoria (27) defeated South Australia (17)
Netball Central | Gadigal People of the Eora Nation
We secured our spot in the grand final with a courageous victory over South Australia. Our defensive pressure was on from the first whistle with Lucy gaining a great turnover and Emma converting up the other end. But South Australia brought the heat, quickly answering our attacking efforts to steal the lead heading into quarter time.
It was a tight tussle in the second with neither side willing to give an inch. A couple of quick turnovers in the saw us draw level thanks to Erin and Emma working well in the circle, while Rachael and Renay impressed through the middle. Sky showcased her long arms and aerial ability to pull in a couple of crucial turnovers.
Ehlana made her way onto the court and provided an option in the circle as we maintained our narrow four goal buffer. We tinkered with the line-up bringing on Holly in wing attack while Rachael moved into centre. Our strong defence enabled us to win ball back as we collected the win.
