Eagles take narrow win in intense final quarter

Camina Drummer

IN perfect winter conditions under sunny skies and a light breeze, Robinvale Euston secured a thrilling 56 to 54 win over Merbein at John James Oval on Saturday.

The Eagles came out firing in front of a vocal home crowd, determined to bounce back from last week’s narrow loss.

Their early intensity paid off, with Sarah Hepburn and Georgia Giofrelle combining for a flurry of goals, giving the home side a 16 to 13 lead at quarter time.

Strong defensive efforts from Kirsten Neyland and Taneh Romeo in wing defence and at centre set the tone early.

Merbein responded in the second term, lifting their defensive pressure and levelling the scores by halftime.

Emily Grey was instrumental for the Magpies in goal attack, not only converting consistently but also disrupting Robinvale Euston’s forward flow.

The sides went into the main break locked at 27 apiece.

The third quarter saw Georgie Kelly shift to goal keeper for the Eagles, providing fresh energy in defence.

However, Merbein capitalised on turnovers, with midcourter Tegan Pettigrew delivering precision feeds and Tasharni Hynes providing tireless defensive coverage.

Merbein edged ahead 42 to 39 at the final change but in a gripping final quarter, Robinvale Euston reclaimed momentum with three quick goals.

Belle Giofrelle’s fast and accurate feeds into the circle were pivotal, while Kelly anchored the defensive end with composure.

Although Merbein surged late to narrow the margin, the Eagles held firm in the dying minutes to secure a gutsy two-goal win.

Best on court honours went to Georgie Kelly and Belle Giofrelle for Robinvale Euston, while Emily Grey and Tasharni Hynes stood out for Merbein in a fiercely contested match that kept spectators on edge until the final whistle.