‘Free hit’ playoff shot for Cougars

THE Geelong Cougars under-19s will be aiming for a return to the grand final stage in two weeks’ time after missing out on the chance to defend their 2017 title last year, but coach Mel Savage knows they will face several challenges along the way before they get there.

Having finished third on the table, the Cougars face a knockout final against Wilson Southern Storage Saints tonight and Savage said it was vital her side returned to playing consistent netball.

“Our form has been a little bit inconsistent, which is to be expected because we have a very young team this year,” she said.

“So that inconsistency comes with this age group, but they played really solid netball last week. Hopefully they can take that into the final because it is do or die the elimination final.”

South Barwon star Ellen Doyle has been one of the shining lights for the Cougars in 2019, with the weekend defender turning shooter for the under-19s team throughout the season.

Savage praised versatility.

She said while anything was possible in finals, she was approaching the game as a free hit for young team.

“I think that is a really good way of looking at it,” she said.

“I was having a chat to the City West coach and they were in our position last year with an inexperienced young team, but with anything, one or two years together is a really big difference.

“We have had a lot of changes this year and we only have three players from our team last year, so we have brought nine or 10 new players into the mix.

“There have been a lot of barriers for them but they have done a fantastic job and with a young and exciting group, anything is possible.” Doyle’s