Yarrawonga holds on to top spot

Ladder leaders Yarrawonga were made to work hard for their victory on Saturday as a young and determined Wodonga Bulldogs outfit brought plenty of intensity from the opening whistle.

The first quarter was a tightly contested affair, with both sides converting accurately in attack. Wodonga matched the Pigeons across the court and held a slender one-goal advantage at the first break.

Yarrawonga lifted their defensive pressure in the second term and began to take control of the contest.

The long reach and relentless work rate of Olivia Lovell at wing defence proved influential, helping to force turnovers and disrupt the Bulldogs' attacking flow.

Kylie Leslie's introduction at wing attack provided fresh energy and opened up the Pigeons' attacking end, while Maddy Allan was outstanding under the post, converting with remarkable accuracy and rarely missing an opportunity.

The second half was more evenly balanced, but the experience of the Pigeons ultimately proved the difference.

Hannah Symes, Maisee Pell and Anna Grinter were dominant in defence, creating numerous turnovers as a result of the immense pressure applied through the midcourt by Laura Irvine and Laura Davis.

Bridget Cassar played a crucial role in the victory, absorbing some heavy physical contact while continuing to create space for Allan in the goal circle.

Cassar's ability to score and secure important rebounds at key moments, combined with her leadership and direction in the goal third, was invaluable to the Pigeons' success.

Yarrawonga maintained their composure in the closing stages in slippery challenging conditions, to secure an impressive 51–43 victory and remain firmly entrenched at the top of the ladder.

Awards: Maddy Allan, Bridget Cassar.

B Grade

Yarrawonga 39 def by Wodonga 41

Yarrawonga B Grade took to the court against Wodonga Bulldogs in challenging weather conditions, showing plenty of determination despite the result not falling their way.

The Bulldogs came out firing from the first whistle, applying strong pressure across the court and capitalising on early opportunities. Their sharp start saw them establish a five-goal lead by the end of the first quarter, putting Yarrawonga on the back foot early.

To their credit, Yarrawonga responded with grit and resilience. Lifting their intensity through the middle stages of the game, the side worked hard to fight their way back into the contest. Strong passages of play and improved defensive pressure saw the margin close, with the Pigeons refusing to let the game slip away.

Despite the spirited comeback, Yarrawonga once again found themselves just short of getting over the line. The Bulldogs steadied when it mattered, holding their lead to secure the win.

While the result didn’t go their way, Yarrawonga can take some positives from the performance, particularly their ability to regroup under pressure and stay competitive after a slow start. The effort and determination shown will hold the team in good stead as they look to convert these efforts into a win in the coming rounds

C Grade

Yarrawonga 41 def. Wodonga 28

Yarrawonga delivered a strong performance to secure a 41–28 victory. From the opening whistle they maintained good intensity and teamwork, moving the ball effectively through the court and creating consistent scoring opportunities.

The attack worked well together, showing patience and accuracy in the goal circle, while the defence applied pressure throughout the game, forcing turnovers and more scoring opportunities.

It was a great team effort, with every player contributing to the result.

The win reflects the hard work, determination, and positive attitude shown by the team throughout the match.

Under 17s

Yarrawonga 35 def by Wodonga 43

The U17s took to the court in difficult wet conditions and showed tremendous determination throughout the match.

After finding themselves six goals down at quarter time, the girls dug deep and fought their way back into the contest, reducing the margin to just three goals and putting themselves in a position to challenge right until the final whistle.

Mabel Cope was outstanding in the shooting circle, providing a strong target and converting important opportunities under pressure.

Kendall's leadership across the court was fantastic, setting the standard with her composure, encouragement and work ethic. In the midcourt, Em Liddell continues to shine, elevating her game week after week with her relentless effort, strong decision-making and ability to drive the ball through the court.

While the result didn't quite fall our way, the game was almost ours for the taking. It was another excellent performance that highlights just how much this U17s side has improved throughout the season.

The growth in confidence, teamwork and competitiveness has been remarkable, and there is plenty to be excited about as the season continues.

Under 15s

Yarrawonga 21 def by Wodonga 54

Yarrawonga Pigeons Under 15s faced a strong Wodonga Bulldogs side, going down 54–21 in a hard-fought contest.

Despite the result, the Pigeons showed plenty of determination throughout the game. Best on court for Yarrawonga were Lily Leslie and Bobbie Tayler.

Lily worked tirelessly through the centre, providing strong drive and linking play across the court, while Bobbie was outstanding in defence at Wing Defence, applying pressure and contesting every ball.

The girls continued to compete right until the final whistle and will take plenty of positives into their next match.