THE Ouyen United Kangas snapped their four-game losing streak in a comfortable 46-36 win over Robinvale Euston.
It was a tight game early, with Ouyen United leading by just one goal at quarter time, before they pulled away strongly in the second and third quarters.
Kangas coach Kyra Nathan was relieved her side was able to snap their losing streak, mostly thanks to the great work of defenders Tsharni Burns and Esther Manley.
“Our defensive unit worked beautifully together and turned over a lot of ball. However we struggled at times to convert those turnovers into scores,” she said.
“After half-time, our attack kicked into gear, the whole team started to gel and we were able to extend our lead.
“I thought we adapted well in some tough, wet, conditions. Robinvale Euston wouldn’t go away but our defenders capitalised on the pressure built across the whole game to give us a great run at the end.”
Eagles coach Georgia Giofrelle shared Nathan’s sentiments on the Kangas defenders.
“Their defensive zone was really strong,” she said. “We managed to break it a couple of times but their pressure was high all game.
“You don’t expect Burns to come from nowhere and intercept some of those passes like she does. She and Esther played great. Our defenders were really good today as well.”
Giofrelle was proud of her team despite the tough loss.
“Our girls played well considering how strong a team Ouyen always is,” she said.
“We had a really good first quarter. Our focus going into the second quarter was to keep possession with short passing but they got away from us in the end.”
There is a growth mindset for the Eagles at the moment, with the youth showing positive signs.
“Ana Filamone held up well for us today in defence and she will be great for us in the future. We have a tough run to finish the season, but we will focus on ourselves and getting better each week.”
