Intercept gives Gulls the win
Warragul netballers won three games at Wonthaggi on Saturday, including a one-goal win in A grade.
A grade: Warragul 24 defeated Wonthaggi Power 23.
In trying conditions, the Gulls’ defence led by Renee Cook and supported strongly by Mackenzie Minichello, created numerous turnovers through the game.
Unfortunately, the attack could not reward these tireless efforts as they struggled to convert in the wet and windy conditions.
Coming into the last, Wonthaggi took a quick lead. However, the Gulls dug deep as captain Jaime Rollinson stepped up and nailed some crucial goals. She then took a great intercept in the dying seconds to enable the Gulls to sneak away with a one-goal win.
Awards: Renee Cook and Jaime Rollinson.
B grade: Warragul 41 defeated Wonthaggi Power 29.
The Gulls went out strong, scoring seven unanswered goals before Wonthaggi got one back.
The weather proved a challenge to both teams but it was Warragul who were the better team on the day.
The highlight was fantastic goaling by Melissa Burton and Olivia Brady in windy conditions. These two are proving a strong combination.
Cindy Dawson was a huge standout in the game, taking many intercepts in wing defence and driving strongly down the court.
The win was the first for coach Ruby Riley at Warragul and has given the Gulls a boost of confidence.
Awards: Olivia Brady and Cindy Dawson.
C grade: Warragul 17 Wonthaggi Power 32.
It was a tough day at Wonthaggi with terrible weather conditions.
The Gulls tried new combinations in the midcourt that proved fruitful. Georgia Lyons, Claire Sandman, Emily Sandman and Tanya Barr did a great job applying defensive pressure and creating turnovers but the Gulls struggled to convert in the conditions.
Sarah Hams also played another solid game in goal defence, rebounding well and providing great drive through the midcourt.
Unfortunately, it wasn’t C grade’s day.
Awards: Sarah Hams and Emily Sandman.
Under 17: Warragul 6 Wonthaggi Power 43.
In tough conditions, the Gulls struggled to keep up in the extreme weather.
Grace Radford was a stand out, starting in goal shooter before moving into defence after the second quarter. The defence end of Grace and Georgia Hams worked hard and attempted to intercept or get hands to the majority of balls.
The girls continued to work hard during the trying conditions. Despite lost lost to to their efforts, the Gulls were beaten by 36 goals.
Under 15: Warragul 27 defeated Wonthaggi Power 15.
The Gulls listened really well, keeping their passes short and low whilst working well together.
Zoe Phillips and Jacinta Bagot teamed up in defence, keeping Wonthaggi’s score low. Laura Miller, Emily Hobbs, Jaz Porch and Bella Hefford steadily drove the ball down the court and gave Bridie Mulqueen and Liv Sheehan every opportunity to finish the job, giving the Gulls their first win for the season.
Awards: Laura Miller, Liv Sheehan and Jacinta Bagot.
Under 13: Warragul 2 Wonthaggi Power 20.
The blustery and cold conditions at Wonthaggi resulted in a tough start for the young Gulls, with Wonthaggi making a strong start at both ends of the court.
A quick refresh and some input from the new coaching team saw good passages of play. This resulted in a much more competitive second half.
The defenders were peppered throughout the day and Wonthaggi’s defensive height made it difficult for the shooters. However, the Gulls showed some strong signs with excellent defence, creative attacking and good run through the centre.
Awards: Pipa Cook, Ella Pitkin and Keely Pyle. An extra special mention went to young Maggie Cook for her excellent contribution. lost to