Warriors through to CBL decider

The Warragul Warriors men have won through to the Country Basketball League Gippsland division grand final after defeating the Churchill Blue Devils at Warragul Leisure Cenrte on Saturday night.

With a full squad to pick from, the Warriors were able to maintain the form that saw them drop only one match throughout the home and away season.

Having had the measure of the Blue Devils throughout the season, the Warriors held the edge to win a tight semi final, 86-74.

Semi-final match details were not available at time of going to print.

Following last year’s grand final disappointment, the Warriors have been building and will be confident of carrying their strong form to Saturday night’s grand final against the Moe Meteors at the neutrtal courts of Traralgon.

The Warragul Association had applied for the CBL grand final, but were ultimately rejected due to inferior facilities.

The Meteors advanced to the grand final following a comfortable 17-point win over the Maffra Eagles, 78-61.

The last time the two teams met, the Warriors prevailed in a tight contest at home, 72-63.

The Traralgon T-Birds will take on the Moe Meteors in the women’s grand final.

The T-Birds advanced after a strong victory over Maffra Eagles 76-58, while the Meteors accounted for Korumburra Wildcats in a tight affair, 46-38.

The women’s grand final will begin at 6pm, while the men’s decider is scheduled for tip off at 8pm.

Rebels player Olivia Sheehan sends her team into attack as Gladiators Leah Marshall looks to defend.

Gladiators player Georgia Coleman carries the ball forward as Yarragon Wildcats player Bella Halliday gives chase; Photographs: Michael Robinson.

Yarragon’s Tannah Orgill taps the ball clear from Gladiators player Charley Kay.

Gladiators Black coach Shane Cruwys addresses his team during a break in play.

Bunyip Ranges player Tijana Bourne looks to put up a shot against strong defence from Charlotte Jessup.

Chalkies player Mileah Phillips heads down court.

Gladiators player Regan Malady gest a fast break.

Rebels player Kierra Bain gets around her Gladiators opponent.