Dragons’ burning desire for finals

BELL Park will know it has earned its spot in finals if it can finish in the top five at season’s end, according to coach Jackie Riddle.

The Dragons have been dealt a tough draw, but it hasn’t fazed the side, which overcame South Barwon last week to keep its top-five spot.

But the last five rounds will see them play Colac (fourth), Leopold (sixth), St Joseph’s (seventh) and St Mary’s (eight), starting with the Joeys today.

Four points separate the five sides, making every game a must-win.

“Another big game, crucial game — season-defining for sure,” Riddle said of today’s match with Joeys.

“I think it’s good though because it shows us if we make finals we’ve definitely earnt it.

“The last couple of seasons knowing we’ve missed out by one game and half a game, knowing if we had an easier draw, or a draw like someone else we would have made it, so it’s in our hands (this year).

“That’s the good thing about it and we’ll know we’re worthy if we make it.”

The Dragons went into last week underdogs but came out on top, showing their best is good enough to take the title.

“It was a good win but it was the way they played together,” Riddle said.

“They combined really well but they played selflessly.

“They were really strong right across the court, so I think taking that form into this Saturday gives us quite a lot of confidence.

“I think the girls are finally playing as a complete team.

“There were a little passages on the court where we weren’t completely jelled (earlier in the season) and I feel like that trust is there now and we’ve jelled.

“It’s really nice to see we don’t have a big squad but any combination they’re really playing for each other. That’s what I’ve seen change the last couple of weeks.”