Victory for Cougars in extra-time comeback
THE Geelong Cougars roared into the Victorian Netball League Championship grand final after a thrilling win over City West Falcons, in a dramatic extra-time semi-final.
The Cougars were forced to call on all of their composure after falling three goals down in extra time, before a stirring comeback to win 67-65.
In a moment that effectively decided the match, a turnover forced by Allie Smith and a centre pass intercept by Mel Bragg swung the momentum in the Cougars’ favour.
Geelong will welcome the break next week and prepare for the grand final on August 14.
It was an epic end to a final that started with plenty of caution.
After 15 minutes of goal-forgoal netball, the scores were all tied up at 15-all heading into the first break.
Looking for a circuit breaker, coach Gerard Murphy called for changes as Jessica Standfield was moved into goal defence and Kaitlyn Sheringham entered the game in centre.
The Cougars found their drive in the second term, with Sheringham’s speed and flexibility providing opportunity for Ruby Horton, who scored 21 goals from 26 attempts in the first half.
Geelong’s defenders also had the upper hand as Mel Bragg and Standfield closed down the space.
Down 33-25 at half-time, the Falcons flew out of the blocks in the third term.
The Falcons moved Vixens training partner Jacqui Newton into wing defence in a bid to stop the drive of Vanessa Augustini, but the Cougars still led 45-39 at the final break.
City West Falcons made their run in the final quarter, netting nine of the last 11 goals to force the match into extra time. IN Division 1, the Cougars lost to DC North East Blaze 57-52 and will play Boroondara Express in the preliminary final on Wednesday night. IN 19-and-under, the Cougars knocked off Southern Saints 53-48 after saving their best for the start of finals.
Geelong started confidently, flying out of the blocks to take an early lead before lifting their intensity in the final term.
The Cougars will play City West Falcons in the preliminary final on Wednesday.