The 2023 VNL Grand Finals are now locked in. Strong wins from Lightning and Blaze see them progress to the 19&U and Division 1 grand finals respectively, while Express triumphed in the Championship division to secure their spot in the big dance.
CHAMPIONSHIP
Geelong Cougars (44) defeated by Boroondara Express (46)
Boroondara Express are through to the Championship Grand Final after edging out Geelong Cougars by two goals. This highly anticipated matchup lived up to its hype with both sides giving it their all until the final whistle. Sharpshooter Isabelle Hodgson continued her dominance under the post with another impressive performance, scoring 35 goals at 95% accuracy, while Sarah Szczykulski was unstoppable in goalkeeper at the opposite end of the court. Casey Adamson and Zali Anderson combined seamlessly through the midcourt, showcasing their court coverage and ability to read the play throughout the match. The Cougars kept Boroondara on their toes with several combinations; Emma Buwalda and Daisy O’Kane were valiant for the Cougars in the circle, scoring 32 goals between them. Defender Brooke Allan fought hard with multiple intercepts against a strong Express attack.
Express Coach Kathleen Knott was full of praise for her side following their hard-fought win.
“It was a tough win. I think how low scoring the game was showed how hard you had to work in attack to get the ball, and defensively both teams were so strong,” Knott said.
“All season we’ve been talking about knowing our role and going on court and doing our role, and I think that’s what they’ve done tonight.
“They did it last week, they’ve done it this week and we’ve got one more game to go.”
Boroondara Express' next challenge is City West Falcons in the Championship Grand Final.
DIVISION 1
Hawks Netball (41) defeated by North East Blaze (60)
North East Blaze enjoyed a 19-goal victory over Hawks Netball to cement their spot in the Division 1 Grand Final. The State Netball Centre was treated to a masterclass in attack from Abby Gedge, who scored a phenomenal 45 goals, while Hawks’ Daisy Hill and Dominique Taylor gave it their all with 34 combined. Georgia Bowkett stood tall in the defensive third, with her consistent pressure causing multiple turnovers during her time on court. The match was also highlighted by a fierce battle in the middle between Maddi Wallmeyer and Kaila Swindell, who were both impressive for their sides.
North East Blaze now take on Geelong Cougars in next week’s grand final.
19&UNDER
Melbourne University Lightning (59) defeated North East Blaze (38)
Melbourne University Lightning were determined not to repeat their 2022 campaign, and have claimed the final spot in the 19&U Grand Final, defeating North East Blaze by 21 goals. Kate O’Dwyer was unstoppable under the post, scoring 35 goals at 95% accuracy, while Akira McCormack enjoyed 21 of her own. Montaya Sardi had another strong night in the midcourt, with her pinpoint passing and speed on full display throughout the four quarters. Tepaea Hobson was also amongst the Lightning’s best, her defensive performance one to remember. Blaze’s Tara Watson and Ruby Shannon were courageous in the middle, while Ally Langdon fought hard in goal defence, but the Lightning were a class above.
Melbourne University Lightning will face City West Falcons to battle it out in this division’s grand final.
UP NEXT
Grand Finals
Wednesday 9 August
CHAMPIONSHIP
DIVISION 1
19&U
