ZOE ASKEW
NETBALL
NORTH GIPPSLAND
By ZOE ASKEW
DESPITE the unwaveringly indecisive weather, seeing rain one minute and sunshine the next, Rosedale and Sale City Football-Netball Club supporters flocked in droves to Heyfield Football-Netball Club’s court on Saturday to watch the North Gippsland Football-Netball League 2022 B Grade Grand Final.
Rosedale and Sale City were neck-and-neck from the first centre pass, shooting one for one in the first half of the starting quarter.
As the first quarter neared its end, the Bulldogs pulled away with exceptional play from Ella Baker Horan in the midcourt.
Sale City led Rosedale 12 to 8 as teams entered the quarter break.
The second quarter saw fantastic defensive play from Rosedale’s goal defence, Lauren Passalaqua and goalkeeper Caitlyn Passalaqua and Sale City’s goalkeeper Grace Tauschke.
In their attacking third and midcourt, the Bulldogs drew strength from their pocket rocket goal attack, Kate Ronchi, whose movement on court and shooting accuracy was impressive to say the least.
Ronchi and Sale City’s goal shooter Lucy Best boasted a strong playing connection as they moved synchronically in the shooting ring.
While both teams harboured impressive talent, it was Rosedale’s centre, Mishe Clarke, who dominated the court, showcasing her athleticism, ability to read the game, astute ball distribution and relentless drive.
Rosedale reclaimed their lead in the second quarter.
Ronchi and Best were dominant presences in the shooting ring, but it wasn’t enough to penetrate Rosedale’s rock-solid defence from the Passalaqua girls.
The Blues maintained the lead heading into the fourth quarter, but it was still anyone’s game.
Aggression built as teams relentlessly scoured for another goal, and the game was now a battle.
The crowd roared at every goal as supporters cheered for their side, but there would only be one winner.
The Bulldogs fronted a tremendous fight, but the Blues took the flag.
Final score, Rosedale 34, Sale City 29.
