Tigers tame Devils to earn grand final tilt at Werribee

THOMSON coach Terry Corry praised his side after it held off a brave Corio 56-49 in Saturday’s preliminary final to book a spot in next weekend’s grand final against Werribee.

The Tigers got off to a fast start and held their nerve in the first half, taking an eight-goal lead into half- time. But the Devils managed to scrap their way back into the contest, cutting the margin to four goals at three-quarter-time.

In the final term, the veteran Tigers, led by Margaret Webb medallist Shannyn Leach and shooter Errin Lang, pulled away for a seven-goal victory. Lang was dominant on the offensive end, finishing with 32 goals, as did Corio shooter Cassidy Stewart.

“It’s obviously amazing to have a place in the grand final. We’ve worked really hard this season and the girls deserve it,” Corry said.

He said Thomson’s terrific opening quarter was the reason his team got over the line.

Corry said his side was up for the challenge against Werribee, but admitted it still had a lot of work to do before the season decider.

“We have to do a lot (to beat Werribee), but like I’ve said all year, any team on their day can win it all, so I’m confident the girls can do the job,” he said.

Corio coach Bridget Burns said she had expected the preliminary final would be a big ask against the Tigers, but praised her side’s season.

“We made some critical turnovers at some critical moments and that’s when momentum swung,” she said.

“People respect us now and it hasn’t been like that for a long time, so it’s great for the club.”

Burns revealed she was unsure if she would return as coach next year.

“I have a few personal things I need to work out, but I do love the club and the girls are amazing,” she said.