Pigeons outgun Bulldogs in high-scoring netball clash

Yarrawonga Pigeons outgunned spirited Wodonga Bulldogs in high-scoring netball encounter

In a fast-paced and high-quality affair at Wodonga on Saturday, the Yarrawonga Pigeons emerged victorious in a high-scoring Ovens and Murray League clash.

The Pigeons edged out the young and improving Wodonga Bulldogs A grade side, in a 60-minute shootout that saw over 130 goals scored.

The first quarter was very close with the young Bulldogs in front at the first break.

Some smart play by the Yarrawonga midcourters in the second quarter allowed for the A graders to regain control and head into half time with an eight-goal lead.

Yarrawonga’s attacking firepower was on full display, led by an outstanding performance from Maddy Allan, who converted 30 of her 36 opportunities.

Allan's athleticism and accuracy under pressure set the tone for the Pigeons, who maintained control in a game that never dipped in tempo or intensity.

Versatility proved to be a winning asset for the Pigeons.

Kaleisa Pell contributed 26 goals from 30 attempts, before a seamless transition from attack to defence.

Her ability to impact both ends of the court proved pivotal in slowing down Wodonga’s surges.

Fresh off a whirlwind trip to the Kentucky Derby, Hannah Symes slotted straight back into the lineup and didn’t miss a beat.

She once again proving herself as one of the side’s most reliable contributors with poise and consistency.

To their credit, the Bulldogs were far from overawed.

Their youthful side showed flashes of brilliance and is clearly a team on the rise.

The Wodonga A graders matched the Pigeons for periods of the match and brought an exciting energy to the court, giving home fans plenty to cheer about and optimism for the future.

While the final score reflected the Pigeons’ superior experience and polish, the contest itself was a testament to clean, attacking netball played in great spirit.

Both teams walked away with positives, and for the Pigeons, it was another step forward in their push towards finals.

Best Players: Maddy Allen and Kaleisha Pell

B Grade

Wodonga 50 def by Yarrawonga 56

The B grade encounter between Yarrawonga and Wodonga was an even contest in the first quarter.

Yarrawonga had taken the lead in the second quarter.

Elle and Dee were strong on their holds in the goal circle, and had taken a six goal lead into half time.

The third quarter saw the Pigeons come out strong, and got out to an 11 goal lead.

Wodonga started to capitalise on some Yarrawonga errors and got within three points as the quarter matured.

Kira and Grace were strong in defence, and got some great intercepts.

Millie and Emma had a solid game in attack and worked hard all game.

The Yarrawonga side came out firing in the last quarter, holding on to their lead to become the eventual winners.

A great victory for the girls as they continue to get stronger each week.

Best Players: Dee Moon and Kira Dickins.

C Grade

Wodonga 41 def by Yarrawonga 54

A strong team effort saw Yarrawonga bounce back in a 13-point win over Wodonga.

C Grade had a few injured and unavailable this week but were fortunate enough to have Maddy Kennedy and Lauren Mulquiney step in.

Both players had a huge impact, and helped the side get a solid win on the board after a few tough weeks.

Best Players: Lauren Mulquiney and Grace Eales.

Under 17s

Wodonga 32 def by Yarrawonga 34.

The Yarrawonga under 17s came into the Wodonga Bulldogs game ready to rumble.

Wodonga’s goalers fought hard in attack, but Maisee and Kendall defended every ball that came their way to make it hard for Wodonga to get it into the ring.

Jedda in the mid-court used her fast pace to her advantage and got the ball out of the Pigeons defence and into attack.

Stevie and Miley distributed the ball into the under 17s shooters.

Lily applied defensive pressure on every ball in the mid court, resulting in turnovers.

Soph and Leni dictated the play in attack. In the second half they were feeding off each other’s energy and compassion, resulting in very few turnovers.

The Pigeons fought hard for the win with the coaches rotating decisions proving to be the difference.

The Yarrawonga spectators were loud and proud, which made the girls fight even harder for the ball.

The under 17s Pigeons are looking forward to next weeks contest against the Rovers.

Best Players: Maisee Pell and Kendall Connell.

Under 15s

Wodonga 57 def Yarrawonga 31

This game was always going to be difficult against a top five side.

Yarrawonga had taken a bit of time to get going.

The girls defended well down the court but were no match for their opponents.

The under 15s never gave up and continued to press.

The girls look forward to next week where they take on Wangaratta Rovers.

Best Player: Emily Liddell.