Saturday August 16th saw all 4 SFL YMCA Monash Netball Divisions battle it out for Premiership glory.
Those who made their way down to the Rowan Rd Complex weren't left disappointed as they witnessed some exciting netball. SFL journalists Will Hunter and Andrew Paloczi wrap up the day below.
Division One
Dingley claimed back-to-back SFL YMCA Monash Netball Division One premierships with a thrilling one-goal victory over perennial challengers Heatherton in the Grand Final on Saturday afternoon.
The local rivals put on another epic contest, with the Dingoes holding off a fast-finishing Tunners outfit to prevail by the barest of margins – 43 to 42. In a final quarter where the lead changed numerous time, it was heartbreak for the Tunners as the final siren blew just as they were mounting an attack on goal.
Despite her side’s loss, Heatherton goal attack Tara Bickham won the medal for best on ground after her stunning 25-goal performance.
The Dingoes led at every change and scored 14 times in the ‘premiership quarter’ to set up a four-goal lead at the final change, with 11 of these coming from goal shooter Sophie Bartlett.
Bartlett, along with Penny Tymms finished the match with 37 goals between them to be named among Dingley’s best.
Congratulations Dingley – The SFL YMCA Monash Netball Division 1 Premiers
Division Two
The girls from Heatherton are premiers in Division Two after defeating Dingley by eight goals in the SFL YMCA Monash Netball Grand Final.
A slow start cost the Dingoes dearly and Heatherton took full advantage of their early dominance, powering home to win 35 to 27.
The Tunners conceded just four goals in the opening stanza to set up a comfortable eight-goal lead at quarter time.
From there Dingley simply couldn’t bridge the gap, despite solid efforts from goal shooter Cass Fogarty (17 goals).
Heatherton Centre Courtney Osbourne proved to be the match-winner and claimed the medal for best on ground after a sublime performance while Goal Attack Elise Boyd did a power of work around the ring to ensure the Tunners maintained their lead throughout the game.
Congratulation Heatherton – The SFL YMCA Monash Netball Division 2 Premiers.
Division Three
There was a strong feeling leading into the division 3 grand final that little would separate Dingley and Clayton by the end of the match. It was an epic battle throughout, with a one-goal break to Dingley at half time being the only time the sides were not locked together at the end of a quarter.
The Dingoes and Clays finished the 4th term 19 goals all, forcing the match into overtime, and were once again equal when the sides changed ends. In the second half of overtime Clayton managed to break away, recording a final score of 25 goals to 22.
It was a thoroughly deserved victory for the Clays, and a thrilling spectacle, but you had to feel sorry for the brave, but defeated Dingoes. Despite the defeat, Maddy Taylor of Dingley was named best on court for her outstanding efforts during the epic encounter.
Dingley will now go into the pre-season with great motivation to go one better next year, but can hold their heads high after their efforts this season. The Clays on the other hand will be basking in the glory of being crowned SFL YMCA Monash Netball Division 3 Premiers!
Congratulations Clayton – The SFL YMCA Monash Netball Division 3 Premiers
Division Four
Doveton Eagles came into the division 4 grand final against St Kilda City as favourites, and with the determination to maintain their unbeaten record for the season. Although City was brave in the first half, the Eagles had opened up a six-goal lead by its conclusion and threatened to run away with the premiership.
The third quarter tested the Eagles’ resolve as City kept coming at them, outscoring the Eagles 12-8. By the last change, City was only a couple of goals down, and an upset seemed possible.
In the final quarter the Eagles showed their class, and despite the fact the City players never gave up, Doveton triumphed 35 goals to 30 thanks to a strong shooting display by best on court, Sherridan Murphy.
Eagles’ player Kat Scott, and captain Melinda Wilson spoke after the game. Both reflected on the Eagles’ dream season, and Scott said, “We’re so proud of ourselves, proud of all the team working together.”
Wilson praised the efforts of opponent St Kilda City, saying, “They never backed down. They always kept coming back.”
Congratulations Doveton Eagles – The SFL YMCA Monash Netball Division 4 Premiers
