KDL Netball | Nagambie progresses through to preliminary final

Tallygaroopna 31

Nagambie has booked a preliminary final date with Dookie United after running away for a comfortable win against Tallygaroopna in their first semi-final clash yesterday.

The Lakers were challenged in the third term, but rallied together in wet and freezing conditions to clinch a 12-goal victory at Undera Recreation Reserve.

The 43-31 victory secures Nagambie's third clash against Dookie United this Kyabram District League season and the most important — a spot in the decider.

Nagambie co-coach Sarah Sanderson said she was pleased with the way her side was able to claim victory after being challenged in the third quarter.

"Really pleased with the result," Sanderson said.

"We spoke about being composed and calm when we needed to.

"And they had a bit of a run on there in the third quarter and trimmed the margin.

"But once we composed ourselves we were able to get the job done in the final quarter which was really pleasing."

Having trailed by nine goals at the main break, Tallygaroopna outscored the Lakers 11-7 to bridge the three-quarter time gap to five goals.

But when the rain started to fall heavily, it washed away any chance of a comeback from Tally.

Players began to hit the deck with the soaked court calling for a steady-style of play.

Nagambie attacking duo Bianca Willis and Sharni Lloyd performed brilliantly and linked well on a number of passes.

Claudia Callagher was involved in multiple attacking runs and played a pivotal role in wing attack for the Redlegs.

And Sanderson played a strong game in defence and was voted best-on-court.

"I thought Bianca shot the ball really well, she hardly missed in windy conditions," Sanderson said.

"Sharni played another strong game in attack and through the midcourt.

"And I thought Alicia (White) came on and played a strong game in wing defence."

The loss spoiled the party of two of Tallygaroopna's finest competitors, with Rebecca Humphrey and playing coach Lisa Hueston featuring in milestone games.

Humphrey played her 300th game of A-grade netball, while Hueston ran out for her 200th game for the club.

Meanwhile, B-grade player Kylie Merigan played her 500th game for the club and moved into second on the all-time list of games played for Tallygaroopna netballers.

Merigan capped her memorable day with a win in the second semi-final against Dookie United.