Demons snatch finals berth in thrilling local derby
Yarram secured its place in the B Grade finals after defeating Woodside by a single goal in a thrilling conclusion to the home-and-away netball season.
With a finals berth on the line, the Demons came out firing and established a 15–10 advantage at quarter-time.
Woodside responded strongly during the second term, reducing the margin to three goals, 28–25, by the main break. The Wildcats continued to apply pressure and scores were locked at 38-all heading into the final quarter.
The closing stages produced a tense goal-for-goal battle, but Yarram held its nerve to claim a memorable 49–48 victory.
Rachel Wiggins led Yarram’s scoring with 28 goals, while India Charles added 21. Lisa Booth was Woodside’s leading shooter with 41 goals, supported by Saskia Eenjes with five and Laura Telling with two.
The victory lifted Yarram into fourth position and earned the Demons an elimination final against TTU on Sunday. Woodside retained third place and will meet second-placed Sale City in Saturday’s qualifying final.
Woodside enjoyed convincing victories across the remaining grades.
In the 15-and-under match, Yarram made a confident start and scored the opening three goals before Stella Kerr put Woodside on the board. The Wildcats’ defenders worked tirelessly as their side gradually gained control, eventually recording a 24–9 victory.
Alice Nye scored 15 goals for Woodside, Kerr added seven and Macey Kee contributed two. Yarram’s goals came through Sammi Nancarrow with four, Navy Ellmers with three and Charlotte Sumner with two.
Woodside also claimed a 35–11 victory in the 17-and-under contest, with Zoe Hustwayte and Charlotte Dillow combining effectively in the goal circle.
The Wildcats produced a dominant performance in D Grade, defeating Yarram 61–10. Rilki Lee Bonnici led the way with 38 goals, while Erin Henderson scored 19 and Sydney Kee and Emily Hustwayte added two each.
Jasmyn Heriot scored seven of Yarram’s goals, with Brittany Tennyenhuis, Melissa Napoil and Evie Charles each contributing one.
The result secured Woodside third place and a qualifying final against Sale City on Saturday.
Woodside’s C Grade side completed its home-and-away campaign with a 31–7 win. Brydie Hurrell continued her outstanding season and strengthened her position at the top of the grade’s goal-shooting standings with another commanding performance.
Yarram’s defenders continued to compete strongly and made the Wildcats work for every scoring opportunity.
Woodside finished third on the C Grade ladder and will face Heyfield in Saturday’s qualifying final.
