ZOE ASKEW
NETBALL
NORTH GIPPSLAND
By ZOE ASKEW
A PREMIERSHIP on your home court – it doesn’t get much better than that.
Heyfield won the 17 and Under title on Saturday, defeating Sale City.
The first quarter saw turnover after turnover as the Bulldogs and the Kangaroos’ midcourt worked tenaciously.
After a mighty battle, Heyfield was first to score, but Sale City quickly retaliated, evening the score.
Heyfield boasted aggressive defence in the shooting ring, which was cause for a particularly physical game.
The Kangaroos’ goalkeeper Jayde Parsons had a fantastic game, showcasing her athleticism, strength and ability to read the play.
Reigan Clapton, India Dean and Lucy Best were the best of Sale City, with a particularly impressive second quarter from Clapton.
Due to an injury at the end of the second quarter, Heyfield lost their wing defender Charlotte Grogan.
Heyfield was in the lead, 31 to 22, at the end of the third quarter.
The Kangaroos’ goal shooter Millie Lamb was sinking goal after goal.
Kiah Johnson in wing defence had a cracking third quarter for Sale City.
The rain came bucketing down as the final quarter began, and despite Sale City’s best efforts, the Bulldogs giving it 110 per cent until the very end, Heyfield was too strong.
Heyfield claimed the premiership with a 43 to 32 win.
The Kangaroos had one very proud coach in Traci Grogan.
“The girls have worked really hard all year and have gone undefeated,” Grogan said.
“It is really hard coming into a Grand Final with that pressure of being undefeated but they really stepped up.
“I just want to say thanks to the North Gippsland Football-Netball League, the club, thank you to everyone.”
Jayde Parsons from Heyfield was voted best on court.
