Sheridan Deledio dishes off a chest pass. Photos: Megan Fisher.
The defending Kyabram District League netball champions have decided to go back-to-back the hard way after falling to Shepparton East in the first semi-final at Longwood Recreation Reserve.
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While the Eagles have been the clear-cut best team in the competition all season, Girgarre was right there with them, setting up a clash for the ages to punch a direct ticket to the grand final.
Shepparton East brought the intensity from the start of the contest, limiting the Roos’ ability to play their fast-paced style of play and taking a six-goal lead at quarter-time.
While Girgarre managed to fight its way back into the contest, winning the third quarter, it wasn’t enough to overcome an Eagles outfit hell-bent on raising the flag this season.
Girgarre coach Holly Nelson reflected on the 49-32 loss and outlined where she thought it went wrong for her side.
Allana Adams waits patiently for the play to reach her area.
“We had a slow start. We weren’t able to match Shepp East’s intensity in that first quarter and were struggling with the basics,” she said.
“We discussed a few things at quarter-time and half-time, which allowed us to get some momentum our way in the last quarter.
“We even managed to win the third quarter as well, but obviously this wasn’t enough to close that gap and Shepp East were the better side.
“We’ve worked hard all season and managed to finish in second spot which has given us this second chance, so, hopefully, we can use it to our advantage this weekend.”
Despite the loss, Nelson emphasised the stellar efforts of some of her players at both ends of the court.
Grace Jackson-Kightly spots a Roo in space.
“Libby Pangrazio was our best on, her defensive pressure throughout the game was amazing,” she said.
“We also had Bella Heggart from B-grade come up and play the majority of the game and most of the second half in gold defence.
“She was a stand-out, and credit to her for coming up to A-grade in an important game and really standing out.
“Jacqui Gahan was, as always, strong in the goal ring. She is always massive for us.”
Nelson also looked ahead to the preliminary final against Rushworth on Saturday at Central Park Recreation Reserve.
Jacqui Gahan puts Shepparton East’s Lauren James under pressure.
“I'm really excited (for the prelim). We love a challenge and Rushworth have had a great year, so we're definitely not going to take them lightly,” she said.
“We lost to them early in the season, but we got the win only a couple of weeks ago.
“So, we know it's not going to be an easy game, but we also know that with hard work and a consistent four quarters, we definitely have what it takes to win.
“It's just a matter of working as a whole core group for the four quarters to get the job done.”
