Yarrawonga’s A Grade netball side overcame a challenging start and difficult conditions to secure a hard-fought win over Myrtleford.
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Played in wintry weather, the match began in scrappy fashion, with both teams struggling to gain control.
The first half was tightly contested, with neither side able to establish a clear advantage. After the break, however, Yarrawonga lifted their intensity and execution to take control of the game.
Young talents Maisee Pell and Mabel Cope showed great promise sharing the goal attack role in the absence of Maddy Allen.
Cope made her A Grade debut for the club and impressed, while Pell demonstrated her versatility by excelling in attack, despite usually playing in defence.
Bridget Cassar once again provided strong leadership in the goal circle, directing play and setting up scoring opportunities.
In defence, Hannah Symes delivered an outstanding performance, working seamlessly with experienced teammates Anna Grinter and Kylie Leslie to limit Myrtleford’s scoring.
Through the midcourt, Gemma Muldoon and Laura Irvine controlled proceedings, supported well by Laura Davis and emerging talent Eva Cummins.
Awards for the match were presented to Hannah Symes and Gemma Muldoon for their standout contributions.
A Grade Final Score: Yarrawonga 50 def Myrtleford 35
Goals: B Cassar 26, M Pell 21, M Cope 2, G Muldoon 1.
B Grade
Final Score: Yarrawonga 54 def Myrtleford 36
Goals: S Moore 35, G Eales 11, B Rodaughan 8.
Yarrawonga faced Myrtleford in chilly conditions, but the cold didn’t deter a strong team effort.
With Abbey Jones unavailable for the match, Briar Rodaughan stepped into the lineup seamlessly, ensuring Yarrawonga maintained its cohesion and drive.
From the outset, the Pigeons' defensive intensity positioned the team for success. On the attacking end, Sarah Moore demonstrated resilience and skill in the goaling circle.
Throughout the match, Grace Stillard exhibited consistent effort and effectively maintained accountability within the defensive circle. Throughout the midcourt, each rotation contributing their energy to the collective effort.
The Pigeons worked together across the court and came away with a well-earned victory 54-36.
C Grade
Final Score: Yarrawonga 57 def Myrtleford 38
Goals: M Jaques 26, B Rodaughan 16, H West 15.
The brisk conditions weren’t enough to slow down the C Grade girls this week, coming straight off the back of a convincing round one win, they were determined to get another strong win under their belt.
Tiarnah Mason and Shani Dickins continued to blanket the opposition shooters, providing plenty of turnover opportunities. Sophie Wilson and Chantelle Dickson created a nightmare for the opposition’s midcourt, with strong hands over and defensive pressure allowing for more tips and intercepts.
Miley Driscoll, Bree Strawhorn, and Milla Hicks allowed for a quick and seamless transition through the midcourt into Yarrawonga’s attacking end, where they presented the ball to a strong goalers circle of Briar Rodaughan, Helena West, and Matilda Jaques.
Best: Miley Driscoll & Helena West.
Under 17s
Final Score: Yarrawonga 29 def by Myrtleford 46
Goals: M Cope 11, L Henley 8, E Henley 5, K Connell 5.
Despite tough conditions, the Yarrawonga Under 17s showed great resilience and determination against Myrtleford.
With a versatile squad, we took the opportunity to trial a number of different combinations across the court. The girls adapted well, showing flexibility and a willingness to step into new roles, which is a great sign as we continue building depth within the team.
The weather certainly wasn’t ideal, but that didn’t stop some excellent passages of play. In the second quarter, we fought hard to close the margin to within three goals, showing strong momentum and composure. Unfortunately, Myrtleford were able to respond and extend their lead.
Defensively, Leni Ramsdale was outstanding. She showed great strength in the contest, rebounded strongly, and consistently disrupted Myrtleford’s attacking flow with some crucial intercepts and pressure on the ball.
Sienna also had a fantastic game, demonstrating her versatility and intensity across GD, WD, and C. Her work rate and ability to impact multiple areas of the court didn’t go unnoticed.
It’s been really encouraging to see so many girls stepping up to the challenge of the Ovens & Murray Football Netball League. The growth, effort, and attitude across the group is something to be proud of, and there is plenty of improvement still ahead of us.
A special mention to Mabel Cope, who went on to play her first A Grade Ovens & Murray game, a fantastic achievement and a reflection of her hard work and commitment.
Under 15s
Final Score: Yarrawonga 30 def by Myrtleford 43
Goals: M George 12, R Lidgerwood 11, E Lidgerwood 6, M Eales 1.
Yarrawonga Under 15s took on Myrtleford in a competitive match, with Myrtleford coming away with a 13-goal win.
The girls put up a strong fight all game, matching Myrtleford’s intensity early and working hard through the midcourt and defensive end to stay in the contest. Their pressure and teamwork kept them in it right across all four quarters.
Best on for Yarrawonga were Bobbie and Rosie. Bobbie impressed with her strong drives and hands over every ball, while Rosie held steady in her first ever O&M game in the shooting circle. She showed great composure, moved well in the ring, and played her role with confidence.
Myrtleford were strong throughout the game, capitalising on their opportunities and finishing well to secure the win.