Premier: Tallygaroopna held off a fast-finishing Rushworth for its first title in the division.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Tallygaroopna has a first-time addition to its netball trophy cabinet, with its 17-and-under side claiming its maiden premiership at Mooroopna Saturday.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
The barometer side all season led at every change once it struck first and quickly against Rushworth, but the Redlegs had it anything but their way in the second half of an eventual 35-32 triumph in Kyabram District League.
The win came shortly after the 15-and-under team wrapped up its season in grand fashion, making the Redlegs two for two on the courts to this point.
Tallygaroopna provided five of the game’s first six goals, never looking back on the lead it built in the early stages, but the Tigers valiantly rallied after half-time to create a thrilling final stanza.
Going for goal: Tallygaroopna's Adeyson Steigenberger.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Image 2 of 5
Close passing: Rushworth's Ella Johnstone.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Image 3 of 5
Moving through traffic: Rushworth's Bella O'Dwyer.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Image 4 of 5
Finding the receiver: Tallygaroopna's Claire Thomas.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Image 5 of 5
Utilising the wing: Tallygaroopna's Layla Clarke.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Setting the tone more than anyone was Tallygaroopna goal attack Kieley Lane, who ran rampant early and lifted the side during critical moments.
The Redlegs had amassed an 18-11 lead at the halfway mark, but had to withstand Rushworth piling on five of seven midway through the third term, their lead cut to four at the final change.
The Tigers would not finish there either, stepping up a gear in the final stages with five straight goals to put them within a pair with three minutes left.
When Tallygaroopna got its chance to put the game to bed with one final sealer, though, Lane reliably delivered again, going on to be rewarded with the best-on-court medal in the post-match presentation.
Big reward: Kieley Lane was instrumental in premiership success.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
“My heart rate was up completely (in the final quarter), but had all faith that these girls would fight for that result,” Redlegs coach Melissa Hosie said.
“(Rushworth) took it up to us, but the girls fought so hard.
“It was a great effort.”
Hosie was also complimentary of Lane’s prowess around the net and her leadership qualities.
“I don’t think Kieley missed more than three shots,” Hosie said.
“As a captain, though, she composed the girls and really calmed them down.
“I’m super proud, it was huge from everyone today.”
10°C