An A grade game between the Pigeons and the Panthers never fails to disappoint, and this see-sawing physical tussle was no different.
The fifth-placed Pigeons started somewhat slowly against the ladder leaders, with some missed opportunities seeing them down by 4 at the first break.
Some good advice and changes by refreshed co-coach Kait Cummins saw the girls turn the tables in the second quarter and with the defensive end bolstered by the welcome return of jet-setting best on court Annalise Grinter all of a sudden, the Pigeons were in the lead.
The Panthers returned fire in the second half with some quality passages of play, despite constant pressure and accurate shooting from the Pigeons and in the end it was a narrow 3-goal margin to the visitors.
Best – Annalise Grinter and Elle Brooks.
B Grade
Yarrawonga 51 defeated Lavington 29
In what were perfect netball conditions, the top-placed Pigeon’s B-graders were able to exert dominance for a full 60 minutes against the 4th- placed Panthers outfit, with a convincing 22-goal win.
It was a new-look team this week with some key positional changes and the inclusion of a couple of handy fill-ins in Kait Cummins and best-on-court Annalise Grinter.
The passages of play from defense to attack were seamless in execution, and the strength and accuracy of the goalers meant that these efforts were rewarded on the scoreboard.
Ebony Woodburn was integral in creating opportunities for turnover and avenues to goal, and the defensive combination of Anna and Jay was effective and intimidating.
Another great game to get the points on the board for this talented team.
Best – Annalise Grinter and Ebony Woodburn.
C Grade
Yarrawonga 38 defeated by Lavington 47
In what was a tight tussle all day for the C-graders, they took on the top of the table Panthers and managed to keep them within a 3-goal margin for three quarters.
Some fantastic combinations in both goaling and defence gave confidence to mid-court players such as best on court Zoe Jones, whose drive and strong hands provided multiple opportunities for turn-overs.
Tay Bogle was again brilliant down both ends, and her athleticism and netball smarts provide confidence all over the court.
In the end it was a few lapses in concentration in the final term which saw the score-line slip a bit, but there is no doubt this team is up there with the very best at the right time of the year.
Best – Zoe Jones and Tayla Bogle.
Under 16s
Yarrawonga 42 defeated Lavington 34
In what was a very exciting and strong game from the young Pigeons, all players were able to contribute strongly to a well-deserved first win of the season.
Coach Jayanna Sharp was impressed with the patience and decision-making of her team from the first whistle until the last, and it was clear that hard work and persistence have paid off.
The good use of turnovers and strong passages of play down the court, especially by best-on-courts Elouise Lynch and Ella Burns was a sight to behold, and the girls never looked like losing this one.
They should be so proud of keeping cool heads under pressure and hopefully this is the first of a few wins left on the board for this year.
Best – Elouise Lynch and Ella Burns.
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