THE Kalangadoo Netball Club juggernaut continued to grow after it stormed to an eighth consecutive Mid South East netball premiership at Mount Burr on Saturday.
The Magpies overcame minor-premier Glencoe in wet conditions to lift the trophy after a hard-fought decider.
Despite the Murphies going undefeated through the entire minor-round season, Kalangadoo held the advantage with its superior finals record and recent semi-final win.
Much like the previous clash two weeks ago, the Magpies set the early pace and dictated the opening stages.
Kalangadoo’s strong start saw a solid six-goal lead open up by quarter time, but Glencoe held firm to ensure the reigning-premier’s advantage did not grow before the main break.
The Magpies flexed their muscles in the third term and flew to a 16-goal lead with the result inevitable with one quarter to go.
The slippery conditions saw players struggle to keep their feet and test their abilities, while a vocal crowd enhanced the atmosphere.
The Murphies made a desperate push in the final term, but it was too late as Kalangadoo held onto a 10-goal victory to be champions once again.
Magpies Coach Kirtsy Egan said it was amazing to watch her side win another flag.
“It is an incredible feeling, but every year is different and an achievement in itself,” she said.
Egan said the addition of a couple new members to the group made it extra special, especially being the first time all three Duncan sisters have played alongside each other.
“We are pretty stoked because there is a couple of new players to our team this year,” she said.
“It was the first year all three Duncan sisters have played together as well, so it is pretty special for them too.
“It has been a good year for us.”
Egan said she hoped the rain would not play a big factor, but the treacherous conditions and a tough Glencoe opposition ensured her side had to fight hard and stick to its plan.
“We hoped the court might dry as the day went on, but unfortunately the rain just kept coming,” she said.
“Glencoe were always going to be a tough opposition, so we had a game plan.
“There was a lot of preparation and hard work behind the result, but you never know in a grand final.
“So we managed to push through and get over the line.”
Egan said there were a number of top performers from her side, but thought it was “fitting” for Abbey Duncan to be named best on court.
“They all did their jobs and played a role,” she said.
“But I thought Abbey Duncan was outstanding.
“Jayde Peacock is always brilliant and plays a big finals game, but I also thought young Chelsea Croser – who is still eligible for 17 and Under – played an impressive game.”
Remarkably, the 2019 premiership ensured Kalangadoo has won all-but five Mid South East netball A Grade titles since 1988.
Egan said each premiership is memorable in its own way and the success is just great for everyone at the club.
“They are all special as the next, so I can not decide,” she said.
“It is a great privilege to win a flag and none of us underestimate that.
“It is not just good for our club, but it is also great our juniors see when you work hard you can get success.”
