ROBINVALE Euston and Imperials both ended their winless runs in SFNL A Grade netball, just perhaps not in the style they were hoping.
An exasperated sigh by all supporters broke the tension surrounding the John James Oval netball courts as the final hooter sounded a 42-all draw.
The Eagles held a 37-32 advantage at the final break, but Imperials’ defence lifted to a new level with Laci McHugh, Maggie Monaghan and Ella Hards creating multiple turnovers. The work of Tracey Sherlock in centre allowed attackers Kia Scott and Ebony Ietto to give Imps the lead 38-37.
Kirsten Neyland and Shakira Hingano were doing likewise in defence for the Eagles, stopping a number of scoring opportunities helped force the ball down the court through plenty of attacking lob passes via Stephanie Gareffa and Belle Giofrelle.
Playing coach Georgia Giofrelle scored two goals in the final minute to level the scores, before the ball was fittingly being held in the midcourt when time elapsed.
“In some ways we were maybe lucky to get the draw but in others it was potentially a missed opportunity but that’s sport,” Imps coach Ali Walker said.
“The girls in defence had a really good game. I said that to the group afterwards the work of Laci, Maggie and Ella to get those turnovers, helping to move the ball through Tracey, gave us the opportunity to get in front.
“We have been able to take some real positives out of each game this season, it’s really just about finding that consistency.”
Young Eagles attacker Ana Filamone finished with 22 goals for the Eagles, Scott top-scoring for the game with 26.
“It was a bit disappointing to go behind after leading by five goals at three-quarter time but I’m glad we didn’t lose our heads, I’m pretty proud of the effort we showed after that,” Giofrelle said.
“Those girls in defence were a major standout for the entire game and I think seeing how hard they worked definitely pushed us to work harder.
“Our game style has been a work in progress and Ana has been coming along really well. Her third quarter on Saturday especially was really strong and she’s going to be a big feature in our team in the coming years.”
