B GRADE – MILLICENT 43 d NORTH GAMBIER 35
THE third term is often referred to as the “premiership” quarter and in the B Grade netball decider, it could not have been more true.
After a tight opening half between North Gambier and Millicent, the latter won the third by nine goals to set up an eventual eight-goal victory.
North led by one at the first change as association best and fairest Bri Fuller dominated with her hard running and accurate finishing.
If not for some scrapping to win back the ball by Millicent wing defender Layla Baker, the scoreline might not have been as close.
The second quarter was also an arm wrestle with Fuller again a key player, while the Saints looked to the Kodi Lucas and Krystal Coghlan for some important touches.
It was all about opportunity in the third quarter and Millicent translated its defensive dominance to scoreboard pressure as Jemma Hayward brought her best to the quarter and netted nine from 14.
The stats told the story in this quarter as the Tigers generated nine scoring shots, while Millicent enjoyed 24 opportunities.
In the end, only North’s accuracy ensured the scoreline did not blow out further going into the last.
It was an arm wrestle again in the final term with Ash Ashby and Fuller again finishing accurately to try and keep North in touch.
However, the damage had been done and the Saints secured the flag.
Baker was awarded the best-on-court honours for her defensive efforts.
