Pigeons produce polished four-quarter performance

Grinter’s milestone highlighted the qualities that have helped build the Pigeons’ netball dynasty over many years, grit, determination, loyalty, leadership and an unwavering team-first attitude. Her influence was again evident throughout the contest as Yarrawonga produced a polished four-quarter performance.

Laura Irvine set the tone early with two spectacular intercepts that immediately lifted the Pigeons, before going on to deliver a vintage performance through the centre.

Her leadership and direction were outstanding all day and even an ankle injury in the third quarter could not keep her sidelined, returning after treatment from trainers to finish strongly.

In attack, Maddy Allen and Bridget Cassar proved creative and dangerous, finding space inside the goal circle and converting their opportunities consistently.

Gemma Muldoon and Kylie Leslie each brought different strengths to the wing attack role against a physical Corowa outfit, working tirelessly to drive the ball forward.

Laura Davis applied relentless defensive pressure at wing defence, creating crucial turnovers for the circle defenders, with Grinter, Maisee Pell and Hannah Symes capitalising strongly.

Olivia Lovell also made a successful return in her first game since the arrival of her third child, Henry. Her height, hands-over pressure and drive out of defence were outstanding.

Awards went to Laura Irvine and Maddy Allen as Yarrawonga celebrated a memorable day for one of the club’s greats.

B Grade

Yarrawonga 33 def by Corowa 40

It was a beautiful day for netball as Yarrawonga’s B Grade side took to the court, though they faced a tough challenge with several notable absences. Missing key players Sarah Moore, Emily McNamara and Alisha Leslie, the team was forced to dig deep against a determined opponent.

Despite the setbacks, Yarrawonga delivered a strong and spirited performance. Briar Rodaughan stood tall in the goal circle, backing up impressively after already playing a in C Grade. Her resilience and accuracy provided a steady focal point in attack and kept Yarrawonga within striking distance throughout the contest.

The introduction of Mabel Cope in the final quarter proved a welcome boost, sparking renewed energy across the court. Her presence contributed to a late fightback, as the team worked tirelessly to regain momentum. Defensive combinations lifted their intensity, applying pressure and creating opportunities as they pushed to close the gap.

Through the centre, Jac Oswald was a standout, working relentlessly to drive the ball forward and support both ends of the court. Her effort and consistency ensured Yarrawonga remained competitive right to the final whistle.

In the end, however, Yarrawonga came up just short, marking the second consecutive week of narrow defeat. While the result will no doubt sting, the team’s determination, adaptability, and fight despite reduced numbers highlighted their resilience and commitment.

With the return of key players on the horizon, Yarrawonga will look to build on this performance and turn their effort into results in the coming weeks.

C Grade

Yarrawonga 41 def by Corowa 42

C Grade showed impressive determination on the weekend, overcoming a slow start to push their opponents right to the final whistle in a nail-biting contest.

It took the team some time to settle into the game, with a sluggish opening quarter allowing the Roos to build an early lead. However, Yarrawonga responded well, steadily improving with each quarter as they found their rhythm and lifted their intensity across the court.

A special mention goes to Ellie Dickins, who made a wonderful return to netball following the birth of her first child. Her presence on court was a testament to her commitment and added a positive lift to the team.

Through the middle, Breanna Strawhorn and Miley Driscoll were standouts, both delivering strong performances in the midcourt. Their work rate, ball movement, and defensive pressure were instrumental in driving Yarrawonga’s resurgence and keeping the team in contention.

As the game wore on, Yarrawonga continued to build momentum, closing the gap and setting up a thrilling finish. Despite their efforts and a spirited fightback, the side fell just short, going down by the narrowest of margins, 42–41.

While the result was disappointing, the team’s ability to improve across the match and push a strong opposition to the line will give them confidence heading into the coming rounds.

Under 17s

Yarrawonga 48 def Corowa 27

The U/17s produced a fantastic team performance on the weekend, coming away with a strong 48–27 win over Corowa to record their first win of the season.

The girls came out firing from the first whistle, with defensive pressure across the entire court creating plenty of turnovers and setting the tone early. The defensive unit worked tirelessly all game combining brilliantly to force errors and win back possession for the team.

Mabel Cope was outstanding in the goal circle, showcasing strong and sharp leads while shooting confidently throughout the match. Her movement and accuracy gave the midcourt plenty of options and helped keep scoreboard pressure on Corowa.

Sienna Clarkson was fierce in defence, attacking every contest and pulling down numerous rebounds. Her determination and intensity were a feature all game and played a huge role in limiting Corowa’s scoring opportunities.

Emily Liddell was a powerhouse through the centre court, showing composure, leadership and relentless effort across four quarters. She caused multiple turnovers, picked off interceptions and constantly got hands to the ball, driving the team forward with her work rate and decision making.

Most pleasing was the confidence and excitement the group gained from the win. The connection across the court continues to build each week, and it was fantastic to see the hard work rewarded with the first win on the board. A great team effort by all involved.

Under 15s

Yarrawonga 44 def Corowa 28

The Yarrawonga Pigeons Under 15s had plenty to celebrate on the weekend, securing their first win of the season against Corowa with a fantastic 44-28 victory.

The girls showed great teamwork and determination across all four quarters, with the defenders proving unstoppable. Best on court honours went to Ruby Sneddon and Bobbie Tayler, whose pressure and strong defensive efforts played a huge part in the win.

A well-deserved result for the Pigeons and a great reward for all their hard work this season.