Pigeons triumph on court

It was a picture-perfect day for netball at the WJ Findlay Oval.

The A Grade game started fast, as it always does against the young Wangaratta Rovers side.

The Rovers were able to stay with the Pigeons early however by quarter time Yarrawonga had pulled away to a 7-goal lead.

By half time the score was 36-14 to the Pigeons.

Outstanding defensive pressure from Laura Irvine and Laura Davis allowed Hannah Symes and Maisee Pell to have maximum impact and generate many turnovers.

Tilly Kennedy was dominant in attack, supplying an abundance of opportunities to shooters Bridget Cassar and Maddy Allan, who both shot accurately.

The A Grade side welcomed back Kylie Leslie after injury, who looked like she hadn’t missed a beat.

Grace Stillard also made a cameo, stepping up from B Grade again.

The final score was 71-34 in favour of the Pigeons, but the day belonged to Laura Irvine who played her 300th club game.

An incredible achievement demonstrating loyalty and tenacity from the mum of three, who’s career looks far from finishing anytime soon. Congratulations Laura.

Best: Laura Irvine and Maisee Pell.

B Grade

Wangaratta Rovers 36 def by Yarrawonga 53

Yarrawonga's B Grade netball team delivered a commanding performance last weekend, defeating Wangaratta Rovers by a convincing 17-goal margin.

From the opening whistle, the Pigeons set the tone with a fast-paced, high-pressure style that proved too much for the Rovers to match.

Yarrawonga burst out of the gates with a strong start, establishing an early lead.

The goal ring duo of Ellie and Dee were in fine form during the first half, combining seamlessly to deliver a string of accurate shots and consistent scoreboard pressure.

In the midcourt, Kylie, Alisha, Sarah and Jackie worked hard to link defence with attack. Their ability to transition the ball smoothly and maintain structure through the centre third was a key factor in Yarrawonga’s dominance.

Down back, Kira, Grace and Anna were rock-solid in defence.

Their relentless pressure and ability to read the play created plenty of turnovers, which the attacking end capitalised on.

The defensive unit not only disrupted the Rovers' forward entries but also played a crucial role in setting up attacking plays.

Grace Eales made a notable impact when she stepped onto the court in the second half, adding another layer of versatility and composure to the shooting end.

It was a strong four-quarter performance by Yarrawonga, highlighting depth across the court and a shared commitment to both attack and defence.

Best: Alisha Leslie and Kira Dickins.

C Grade

Wangaratta Rovers 41 def Yarrawonga 31

On a beautiful spring-like day, the Yarrawonga C Grade team took on Wangaratta Rovers the anticipated 2nd vs 4th clash.

It was a tight game throughout the first half, with the Rovers going into the half time break with a 5-goal lead.

Yarrawonga worked hard defensively to try close the gap on the scoreboard however, the Rovers maintained control and ran away with a well-earned win.

Defenders Kirby Holmquest and Sophie Wilson were standout performers, applying great defensive pressure and creating numerous turnovers.

A few key takeaways from this week’s game.

C Grade looks forward to a solid week on the training track and bouncing back strongly next round against North Albury.

Best: Kirby Holmquest and Gemma Grimmond.

Under 17

Wangaratta Rovers 58 def Yarrawonga 31

Yarrawonga Under 17s came out fighting against the Wangaratta Rovers.

Each player fought hard for the ball, showcasing a determination to defeat the home team.

The Rovers goalers fought hard for every goal but Maisee and Under 15 girls Sienna and Winnie defended every ball coming their way and applied pressure to the Rovers attacking end.

Jedda in the midcourt used her fast pace to every advantage, getting the ball out of the Pigeons defence.

Stevie and Miley fed the ball into shooters frequently.

Lily applied defensive pressure over every ball in the mid court which caused turnovers. In attack, Soph and Kendall dictated the play, and fed off each other’s energy.

The Pigeons fought hard but unfortunately the girls couldn’t quite keep up with the past pace of Rovers.

The Under 17s Pigeons will fight harder next week against the Hoppers.

Go Pigeons.

Under 15

Wangaratta Rovers 27 def by Yarrawonga 37

A great win for the Under 15s last weekend to get them back on the board.

The girls had a great defensive game, with defensive pressure evident down the entire court.

The Under 15s rotated players well and the girls adjusted seamlessly.

The defensive end was great again, remaining consistent with their tight on defensive and ability to read the ball was amazing.

The midcourt was able to efficiently bring the ball down and were calm feeders to the shooters.

Communication was heard all game from the entire team.

The shooters stood out again on the day, converting nicely.

A much needed win for the Under 15 girls who now turn their attention to North Albury next weekend.

Best: Players player - Sienna Clarkson, Coaches award - Emily Liddell.