NETBALL
GORMANDALE will meet its qualifying final opponent Heyfield on grand final day after the Kangaroos toppled minor premiers Churchill in a nail-biting contest at Maffra last weekend.
The two sides have met on three occasions this season, with the ledger two-one in Gormandale’s favour.
Their second meeting provided spectators with plenty; sitting side by side on the premiership ladder in second and third the clash lived up to the billing.
One of the biggest improvers this season, the Kangaroos were tested throughout the contest as they looked to match the intensity of the Tigers.
Heyfield’s ability to draw away and maintain a buffer proved the difference in a 38-30 win.
The second semi-final contest was a hard physical affair as both sides desperately fought for their spot in the grand final.
Gormandale won 39-36 to advance to a first grand final in more than seven seasons.
The two sides boast strong lineups.
Gormandale’s Bree Hulley capped off a strong year by winning the league best and fairest award.
Teammate Teegan Clarke was named in the A grade league team of the year with the same accolade bestowed on Heyfield’s Emma Wojcinski and Kara Wheeler after a stellar season.
After bundling out minor premiers and flag favourites Churchill last Saturday, the Kangaroos’ past month has been near faultless, however player coach Kara Wheeler is aware a challenge awaits.
Wheeler will come up against 2013 league coach of the year and experienced Gormandale campaigner Greata Douch.
Douch will be confident her side has the depth to go all the way with strong recruitment adding to the side’s already impressive list.
