DROUIN will have all six sides competing in finals this weekend. Drouin’s 17and under side joins all three senior teams on Saturday in the second semifinal after a solid win against Sale. The 13s and 15s play in the first semifinal on Sunday at Warragul after two great wins in front of a home crowd on Sunday.
17 AND UNDER
Drouin made the long trek to Sale for a muchanticipated clash with home town favourites Sale. It was steady and smart from the first whistle, leading strongly to the ball and making the most of their opportunities early, despite the finals nerves.
Drouin went from strength to strength throughout the match, with the players’ confidence in each other building in every quarter.
Drouin relied on a different goaling combination with Kelly Hedley sidelined through injury. Brittany Jolly played at goal shooter and her combination with Stacie Proctor was a delight to watch.
Drouin’s defence end forced Sale to turn the ball over on many occasions and with Drouin taking the first option with its passes, the hard work resulted in a shot at goal nearly every time.
Stacie Proctor topped a great day for Drouin being awarded the umpire’s vote for best on court. Drouin sent a clear message to Warragul that finals are a different game and that Drouin has saved its best form for the most important time of year.
Score: Drouin 50 d Sale 26.
15 AND UNDER
Drouin started extremely strongly, opening up a 102 lead by the first break. Drouin’s defensive work in the first quarter was outstanding with Jess Hedley, Courtney Addison and Alex Barwick relentless in their defensive pressure, causing many turnovers.
In goals, Drouin was strong, using its height to advantage. Despite the lack of flow in the game, Drouin kept attacking the ball and was rewarded on the scoreboard.
Centre Katrina Wardle had a strong game, especially defensively, and was instrumental in many turnovers. Imogen Sceney had an impact on the game when she came on into defence, helping to restrict Maffra’s scoring power.
Drouin thoroughly deserved its win and will be tough competition for Warragul next Sunday. Jess Hedley was the umpire’s best on court with a fantastic game in defence.
Score: Drouin 29 d Maffra 9.
13 AND UNDER
For the majority of the Drouin side, this was the first taste of finals netball. The wet and slippery conditions made it difficult for both teams to gain any flow in their play, and with finals nerves playing a big part in the first half, it was anyone’s game.
Drouin started to settle in the third quarter with great defensive pressure all over the court, the team gave its goalers plenty of opportunities. Sam Davis and Jess Wyatt goaled accurately to finish off the team’s great work.
Taylor Beck played a steady attacking game for Drouin in the centre and her defensive work throughout the match was outstanding.
Drouin’s flow was disrupted in the final quarter with an injury to goalkeeper Alice Goodwin. To Traralgon’s credit, it fought back hard and managed to reduce the margin but Drouin held on to score a confidenceboosting win.
Drouin’s goal attack, Jess Wyatt, was awarded umpire’s best on court for a steady game, her experience contributing significantly to a marvellous team effort. Drouin will meet Warragul on Sunday at Warragul in the cutthroat first semifinal.
Score: Drouin 17 d Traralgon 15.
