THE Wonders of Wentworth have done it again – another undefeated regular season followed by an A Grade grand-final appearance.
All that’s left for Amanda Edwards’ squad, which hasn’t been beaten since 2019, is to hang yet another premiership banner at George Gordon Oval in about two weeks’ time.
On Saturday at Mildura Sporting Precinct, the Roos were pushed hard in the first half by familiar foes Mildura before gradually pulling away for a 14-goal second semi-final victory on a windy court and in front of an enthusiastic and vocal crowd.
The Demons, marshalled in defence by possible league MVP Ava Zadow and veteran Sharon Watson, shared first-quarter honours 10-10 and were only three points off the pace at the half, but then Edwards took charge in the circle and centre Ash Cameron, goal attack Liz Rowe and goal keeper Natalie Vercher maintained their usual high standards as the lead built to 44-30 at the final horn.
Coach Edwards knows the job is not done yet for a side that collects flags like an avid philatelist does stamps.
“I was really proud of our girls today. It was sticking to what we do best,” Edwards said.
“(Mildura) are a great side and we knew they were going to come out hard and give us everything. It has to be expected come finals. Just because we’ve been undefeated throughout the year there’s nothing that is going to stop anyone coming after us.
“It was good and physical today and the umpires let us contest and have a crack at the ball, that’s what you really want.
“Now we just regroup (before the final) … we don’t back off, we don’t take our foot off at all … come out hard, practise hard and see what happens in next weekend’s preliminary final.”
Demons coach Ellie Vincent and her charges will be in the thick of that battle at MSP and is quietly confident they will get another shot at the Roos.
“Ouyen United always show up for finals and are a massive threat, and Irymple have been in the top five all year so there’s not really a preferred way to go,” she said before Sunday’s elimination semi at Merbein.
“We had a good game against Irymple last week. Hopefully we continue that form, keep the girls coming together and the momentum flowing.
“Ava is always amazing out there and nice to have on my side and Jess McNamara’s accuracy was massive today but each and every one of us are coming out nice and hard so the girls are really putting everything on the line towards the end. We are very excited for the next couple of weeks.”
