It was a great game for the spectators, with the margin never more than a few goals at each break, though Mulwala were hungrier for the points in the deciding term.
Savannah Wilson kept Mulwala’s forward line on their toes, with perfectly timed intercepts at the transverse and unwavering defence in the ring and was awarded the Finley RSC award.
Ever consistent Shania Bentley worked tirelessly against a formidable Mulwala defence, earning the Hong Loch award.
B Grade - Mulwala 38 d Finley 20:
The competition leaders were too good for the Cats, who kept battling and their efforts were commendable against a quality Mulwala side.
Andrea Sneddon had her work cut out for her with the ladder leader’s defence working hard to keep her from the ring. She answered with a bag of goals from long range.
Andrea was awarded the Eagle I Machinery award. Nicola Denny continued her impressive form in the centre and was awarded the Daisy Mae’s award.
C Grade - Mulwala 64 d Finley 21:
It was always going to be a tough game coming up against fourth placed Mulwala but to Finley’s credit the team fought it out to the end.
Kirsty Clarke had another great game in the centre which earnt her the Kelly Grains Award. Sasha Wood fought hard in defence and received the Hong Loch award.
Under 17 - Mulwala 30 d Finley 24:
The 17s got off to a slow start but managed to make up ground by the end of the first quarter. The rest of the game was close but very up and down.
The Cats had some great turnovers in the defence end and fantastic passages of play bringing the ball down the court and into the ring, but there were also some erratic passes and rushed play.
The team continues to improve each week and show what they are capable of, however they need to play a consistent four quarters in order to come home with the win.
The Finley Bakery award went to Bella Kelly for her strong, consistent defensive work, tight pressure and excellent three feet and hold.
Sarah Orro earned the FFNC canteen award for her strong leads in the goal circle, great shooting and her strong body work enabling her to hold her own against physical defenders.
Under 15s - Mulwala 32 d Finley 13:
The young Cats came out firing but the Mulwala Lions managed to pull away.
Best on court went to young gun Cassidy Reynolds who plays a whole game in centre each week and never complains.
Her determination and skill level awarded her the Finley Bakery award.
The FFNC canteen award went to Shannae Thompson who has improved so much and is really thinking about what we do at training. Good work girls and try again next week.
Under 13s - Finley 37 d Mulwala 7:
The under 13s are the in-form team for the mighty Cats, and their performance against Mulwala on Saturday again demonstrated this.
Sarah Bauer’s consistency in defence earned her the FFNC Canteen award and Katie John is among the team’s most improved and was awarded the Finley Bakery award for a terrific effort.
11 & Under:
The Kittens came up against a well drilled Mulwala team. The girls tried all game in very cold conditions and to their credit never gave up.
They still need to work on coming forward but the footwork and passing has greatly improved since the start of the season. They need to keep working hard at training.
Finley Bakery award went to Ruby Taylor and the Canteen Award to Remi Pyle.
Finley will now move their focus to round 12, where they will take on The Road at Congupna on Saturday.