Thomson gears up for tactical tussle with Centrals
THOMSON coach Terry Corry declared the premiership race wide open after his side advanced to the second semi-final with a strong win over Bannockburn in Saturday’s qualifying final.
Corry was thrilled with his side’s fourquarter performance and the output from all his players as Thomson booked a showdown with Werribee Centrals for the right to get a direct passage into the grand final.
Thomson dominated the second quarter after leading by one goal at quarter-time, eventually holding a commanding 28-goal lead at the final break before Bannockburn trimmed the margin to finish 65-41.
Errin Lang (35 goals) and Elley Heard (30) shared the scoring load for Thomson in a dominant shooting performance, while Shannon Pietsch (22) led the way for Bannockburn.
“It’s fantastic to get the win. Personally I believe between all of the teams in the finals, anyone can take the title, so to get over the line is big for us,” Corry said.
He said the second and third quarters, where Thomson blew the game open, were the standout moments.
“The second and third terms were huge, the girls were using all the options and capitalising on turnovers,” Corry said.
“We’ve got three forms of attack and defence and we have done a lot of work on switching the game and the girls did a great job.”
Corry said his team was ready for a big challenge against the Werribee Centrals powerhouse.
“We’re growing in confidence. If we can put our game together and get it right on the day, we’re a chance (against Werribee),” Corry said.
“It will be a battle of the strategies, I think we’re close but not overconfident.
“I think a couple of years of disappointing finals appearances, the girls have a changed attitude and are accepting responsibility.”
Yesterday, Corio defeated North Geelong 40-37 in an elimination final. An incredibly willing, physical and contested game, the Devils were pleased to show their strength to pull away with the win.
Corio showed its depth and versatility, swinging changes to open up its attacking end. Shayna Poto and Jaymie Lowe stood tall against a flurry of contesting from North Geelong defenders. Cody Dixon was judged best for the Magpies.