Yarrawonga 64 defeated Myrtleford 37
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The Yarrawonga Pigeons A Grade team returned from the break in emphatic fashion on Saturday, producing a commanding performance to defeat Myrtleford 64-37 and further cement their standing as one of the Ovens & Murray League's premiership favourites.
Despite missing regular defensive stars Maisee Pell and Hannah Symes through minor niggles, the Pigeons barely missed a beat as experienced campaigners Kylie Leslie and Annalise Grinter rolled back the years with a masterclass in defence.
The veteran pairing made life incredibly difficult for the Saints' shooters, combining superbly under the constant pressure created by wing defence Liv Lovell and centre Laura Irvine.
With relentless defensive pressure outside the circle forcing rushed passes, Leslie and Grinter capitalised time and again, collecting intercept after intercept to continually turn defence into attack.
The Pigeons' transition was slick throughout the afternoon, with Grinter and Lovell driving the ball swiftly through the court and into an attacking line that was in full flight.
Leading the charge was 300-game champion Bridget Cassar, who showed there is still plenty left in the tank. Moving with the energy of a player half her age, Cassar was outstanding, while her defensive intensity inside the attacking third ensured any Myrtleford turnover was quickly won back.
Dynamic wing attack Gemma Muldoon was instrumental in feeding the circle with precision, while Maddie Allan continued her outstanding season at goal attack with another composed performance.
Adding further excitement for Yarrawonga supporters was the confirmation that exciting young talent Kaliesha Pell will remain with the club for the rest of the season.
Pell impressed in both goal attack and goal shooter, providing another dangerous option that will give opposition defenders plenty to think about as September approaches.
There were also encouraging signs for the future, with young defender Sienna Clarkson taking her opportunity at wing defence to provide valuable rotations for Lovell, while Lauren Nolan capped a superb debut at Ovens & Murray A Grade level.
After starring in B Grade since arriving from Melbourne this season, Nolan made an immediate impact in the final quarter, helping the Pigeons extend their winning margin with more than half a dozen intercepts in a performance that underlined the club's impressive depth.
The comprehensive 64-37 victory showcased Yarrawonga's strength across every line and provided plenty of positives as the Pigeons continue building towards finals.
Best Players: Kylie Leslie and Annalise Grinter.
B Grade
Yarrawonga 64 defeated Myrtleford 35
Yarrawonga B Grade bounced back in style with a commanding victory over Myrtleford, setting the tone early with a dominant 19–8 opening quarter.
The Pigeons were outstanding across the court, with every player contributing regardless of position changes, as Yarrawonga controlled the momentum throughout the contest.
After a disappointing loss last week, the performance was a timely response that showcased the team's resilience, depth and versatility.
The win provides a significant confidence boost heading into a must-win clash against the Wangaratta Magpies next weekend, with the group proving they have the talent and adaptability to rise to the challenge when it matters most.
C Grade
Yarrawonga 50 defeated Myrtleford 36
Yarrawonga C Grade continued their strong form with a convincing 50–36 victory over Myrtleford.
After taking a narrow three-goal lead into the first break, the girls-maintained control throughout the game before pulling away in the final quarter to secure a well-deserved 14-goal win.
The team’s relentless defensive pressure all the way down the court created countless turnovers, allowing Yarrawonga to dictate the tempo of the game.
At the defensive end, Shani, Sophie and Chantelle worked tirelessly to apply constant pressure to the Myrtleford shooters, making every goal hard-earned.
Through the midcourt, Bree, Stevie, Helena and Miley worked constantly, delivering accurate feeds into the shooters and showing great patience to maintain possession.
Their composure and patience feeding into the circle ensured Yarrawonga kept hold of the ball and created plenty of scoring opportunities throughout the day.
At the shooting end, Tilly, Briar, Montannah and Miley all contributed on the scoreboard. Miley stepped into GA in the final quarter and shot with outstanding accuracy.
If this proves to be a newfound position for Miley, she could well emerge as a genuine contender to challenge Briar for top spot in the league’s Hot Shots Award.
Players’ Player: Briar Rodaughan
Coach’s Award: Miley Driscoll
Under 17s
Yarrawonga 44 defeated by Myrtleford 41
A nervous Yarrawonga team took on Myrtleford saints following a 15-goal loss when they first met in round 2.
The young pidgins have been working tirelessly on their defensive pressure which was evident in a very close game with the final score being 41-44 going down.
Down by 8 goals at three quarter time, the girls played inspired netball in the last quarter to almost snatch an unlikely victory against a top three side.
Great defensive pressure from Sienna, and Kendall’s ability to swap from defence into attack resulted in both girls receiving awards for the team.
The coach’s gave great feedback to their team, expressing immense improvement and how they are developing into a solid outfit.
With this new confidence they look forward to taking on Wangaratta Magpies next week.
Under 15s
Yarrawonga 48 defeated by Myrtleford 27
Yarrawonga put together a strong four-quarter performance to defeat Myrtleford 21 goals.
The girls moved the ball well through the court, applied relentless defensive pressure, and capitalised on their opportunities in attack to secure a convincing win.
A standout in defence was Ruby Sneddon, who was outstanding with her pressure, strong contests, and timely intercepts that continually disrupted Myrtleford’s attack.
In the midcourt, Lilly Leslie worked tirelessly, providing great drive, linking defence to attack, and setting up countless scoring opportunities with her smart ball movement.
It was a fantastic team performance from Yarrawonga, with every player contributing to another impressive win.