Gulls are real deal
Warragul netballers proved they are genuine A grade premiership contenders with a draw against the undefeated Morwell side on Saturday.
It was the second draw of the day between the two clubs at Morwell. A grade: Warragul 39 drew Morwell 39. The challenge was set as the Gulls came up against the undefeated, top team in Morwell.
The Gulls trailed the whole game. However, with determination and a more consistent four quarters, managed to hang in until the end to get a draw.
The ability to capitalise on turnovers will be crucial in the coming weeks.
It was a great game by the whole team with the Gulls looking very promising for the weeks ahead. Awards: Hayley Roberts and Myah Healey. B grade: Warragul 44 defeated Morwell 30. After drawing with Morwell previously, Warragul was prepared for a tough game and determined to win.
Morwell was strong in defence which made it difficult to score. However, Warragul quickly adapted in the goaling end and settled into the game, securing a nine-goal lead at halftime.
Defensive pressure in the mid-court resulted in some key turnovers, allowing Warragul to increase its lead.
The game was a celebration for Melissa Burton who achieved the outstanding milestone of playing her 250th club game. This helped the Gulls secure the win by 14 goals.
Awards: Lily Sheehan, Alanis Joyner and Melissa Burton. C grade: Warragul 26 drew Morwell 26. It was set to be another tough game for the Gulls who had a great start to be up by six goals at quarter time.
Morwell upped its pressure and pegged it right back in the second.
Neither team could get a break in the second half. A penalty shot after the final siren by coach Kim Weller ended the match in a draw this team’s third for the year. Awards: Jessie Gleeson and Grace Cant. Under 17: Warragul 25 lost to Morwell 43. Against top of the ladder Morwell, Warragul showed how competitive it can be.
With the Gulls at full-strength, the girls played of their best netball yet as the defensive end complemented the attacking end perfectly.
Grace Radford, Elodie Williamson and Tanae Guy all read the play beautifully when defending in the ring and Ella Weir, Laura Miller and Lily Sheehan were able to bring the ball down the court to provide the attackers with plenty of opportunities.
Bridie Mulqueen, Olivia Sheehan and Myah Healey worked tirelessly; moving the ball around in the attacking end effortlessly. Under 15: Warragul 6 lost to Morwell 27. A great effort from the Gulls on Saturday. Despite the scoreboard, no player dropped their head as everyone gave 100 per cent.
Goal keeper Chiara Whibley demonstrated great defensive pressure and turnovers.
Awards: Monique Hanchard and Charli Hendrikse. Under 13: Warragul 17 lost to Morwell 18. It was a close match right from the start, with both teams working incredibly hard to get the win.
The girl’s encouragement on and off the court was great to witness and lifted the team when they needed it.
Awards: Arabell Looby and Mia Radford.