Hawks into grand final
NORTHERN Hawks have booked their spot in the State League netball grand final after winning against Cripps Waratah 55-45.
They are to meet crosstown rival Cavaliers, in the fourth grand final between the two in a row.
Hawks didn’t have it all their own way though. It took them three quarters to shake off a persistent Cripps whose defensive efforts forced Hawks into a number of uncharacteristic errors.
Hawks struggled to transition through the centre court at times forcing a number of a long balls that Cripps easily picked off, with Cripps playing some of their best netball for the year.
Both teams were tentative to start with as intercepts went unrewarded.
Cripps Sisters Sophie and Hannah Navickas were working overtime at centre and wing defence to slow down the entry of the ball into the dangerous Ashlea Mawer as Hawks took a 12-11 lead at the first break.
Hawks got the first break of the second quarter to open up a three-goal lead but Cripps reeled the lead back in, as their defensive pressure really slowed down Hawks usually fast-moving attack end.
Lauren Thornbury and Grace Pullen were combining well in the circle as Cripps overturned the score to take the lead by two.
But some later errors from Cripps opened the way for Hawks to string together a late run of goals and take a 27-25 lead into half time.
Hawks scored the first three of the third quarter, only for Cripps to return the favour.
Both teams turned the ball over, but neither were able to convert until intercepts by Hawks sisters Tessa and Lydia Coote stretched the lead to 43-38 at the last break.
Cripps turned over a number of balls early to start the last term.
The long arms of Hannah Navickas were in everything.
But a few errors from Cripps and some missed shots was enough for the experienced Hawks outfit to take control and run away with the match.
Hawks coach Kellie Woolnough was pleased to come through with the win.
“It was a tightly contested match with great intensity from both teams,” she said.
“Our attackers found their rhythm in the fourth quarter and we limited opportunities in Cripps attack end.
“We are excited to have the opportunity play in the grand final.”
In the under-19s competition Cripps Waratah had a strong 48-26 victory against the Kingston Blues and will face Devon in the final.