Yarram B Grade Prevails in Thriller as Young Sides Show Improvement
YARRAM'S B Grade netballers produced one of their best performances of the season on Saturday, edging out Yallourn Yallourn North by just two goals in a thrilling contest, while the club's junior and lower grade teams continued to show encouraging improvement despite several losses.
The B Grade clash went right down to the wire, with Yarram holding its nerve to claim a hard-fought 42-40 victory.
Strong defensive pressure across the court laid the foundation for the win, while the attacking combination of India Charles and Rachel Wiggins proved composed under pressure, converting crucial opportunities in the goal circle.
The midfield worked tirelessly to create space and deliver quality feeds, while smart decision-making in the closing minutes highlighted the side's growing maturity.
Lily Collins was recognised for her relentless attacking and defensive pressure, while Manawa Apiata earned an award for her outstanding defensive game and timely intercepts.
In C Grade, Yarram went down 39-18 but the result represented significant progress after suffering a 38-goal defeat to the same opponents earlier in the season.
The defensive unit worked hard to secure rebounds and transition the ball through the court, while the shooters combined well with several clever shooter-to-shooter passages. Alira and Jade were named the team's best players.
D Grade also battled hard before falling 43-18. Jas Heriot impressed after being thrown into the goal defence role, attacking every contest with determination, while Bec Nancarrow was rewarded for another strong performance.
The Under 17 side was defeated 49-18 after matching YYN during an impressive opening quarter.
Yarram showed excellent front cuts, slick ball movement and strong defensive pressure early before the visitors' class eventually took control. Despite the scoreboard, the home side improved considerably from its Round 2 meeting, reducing the margin by 11 goals while also increasing its own scoring output.
Awards went to Olivia Bowden for her consistent defensive pressure, Chloe Nancarrow for her rebounding and tireless work down the court, and Lilly Hunter for her leadership and support of the younger players.
The Under 15s were also competitive in a 37-10 loss, trimming three goals off the margin from their previous encounter with YYN.
Shayla and Charlotte led the defensive effort with a series of clean intercepts, while Navy and Chloe also provided strong support in the goal circle. Through the midcourt, Ella, Izzy, Violet, Scarlett, Navy and Lucy all contributed intercepts and smooth passages of play.
In attack, the Nancarrow sisters combined beautifully, creating space for one another and finishing some impressive team passages. Chloe and Sammi were recognised for their excellent circle work, while Izzy received an award for her relentless effort, positive attitude and ability to get a hand to almost everything.
