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Yarrawonga Youth Girls came into last Sunday’s game full of confidence after their improved efforts over more fancied opponents in recent weeks.
This time the girls were up against the Wodonga Raiders. Last time they met the Raiders the game went down to the last kick and the Pigeons went down by just 5 points.
So, this game was always going to be a close match as both teams were determined to end the season on a high.
From the first bounce the Pigeons kept the Raiders scoreless with Tahlia Newnham kicking the only goal for the quarter.
In another very strong defensive game by the Pigeons, the Raiders found it hard to score.
Spectators had to wait until the third quarter to see the next goal, when the Raiders eventually broke through edging one point ahead at the final change.
The home side’s pressure was making sure the opposition earned every score, but they also found it hard to find the scoreboard themselves.
Some great plays from back-liners Tayla Sampson, Charlie Hall and Kali Martin gave the Pigeons several chances up forward.
Evita Williams was again strong in the ruck providing the midfield with several clearance options. Mia Spiteri and Gabby Murray provided some important clearances and run out of the centre.
As always Annie Robilliard was again solid in the backline, saving potential goals, taking marks and driving the ball back into the centre square.
Ruby Kennedy continued her improvement. Amelia Sissons, Phoebe Jarrad and Trinny Preer were also leading up the ground, taking advantage of some great passages of play.
Brooke Fitzpatrick and Dakarrah Witworth also found plenty of the ball defending the Raiders attacks.
But it was the last quarter that broke the Pigeons back when the Raiders piled on two quick goals to come out eventual winners by just 7 points.
Despite a hard tackling and therefore scrappy game it was again a much-improved effort by the girls who can take some real positives out of this match and the season.
Coach Roger Robilliard said he was extremely pleased and proud of how the girls have developed this year.
“There has been really good development from all the girls this year,” Rog said.
“They went from watching the ball to hunting it. They have developed great team work and a will to win.
“It was a pleasure to coach such an extremely respectful and committed bunch of girls who are really enjoying their footy and playing as a team despite the results.
“We are always looking for more recruits to join this fantastic group of girls,” he said.
Awards: Charlie Hall – Family Award. Mia Spiteri – Yarrawonga Hotel. Gabby Murray – Publicans Daughter. Tayla Sampson – Mulwala Bakery. Tahlia Newham $10 Award.
Goal: Tahlia Newnham.
Best: Tayla Sampson, Mia Spiteri, Evita Williams, Tahlia Newnham, Ruby Kennedy and Gabby Murray.
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