Sharni Hughes contests a loose ball through the midcourt in the All Blacks’ big qualifying final win over Whorouly. Photos: Garry Jones.
The Benalla All Blacks under-15s have started their finals campaign in impressive fashion, producing an outstanding team performance to secure a 65-44 qualifying final victory over Whorouly at North Wangaratta Recreation Reserve on Saturday.
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The young Panthers came out firing from the opening whistle, taking an 18-7 lead at quarter time. From there, they continued to apply intense defensive pressure while remaining calm and composed with the ball in attack.
Lola Crook was superb inside the circle on Saturday.
Benalla led 32-20 at half time before being challenged strongly in the third quarter. The Panthers showed great maturity to stay composed under pressure, taking a 43-32 lead into the final break before producing a brilliant 22-goal final quarter to finish the game strongly.
Harper Robertson looks to feed the ball inside the circle.
Across all four quarters, every player stepped up and played their role. Lola Crook and Harper Robertson combined beautifully in the goal circle, working together with strong movement and composure.
Lara McConachy heaps the pressure onto her Whorouly opponent.
They were supported by fantastic movement and feeding through the midcourt from Olivia Mullaly, Lilly Hazell and Sharni Hughes, who worked tirelessly to connect the defensive and attacking ends of the court. Sophia Young and Kayla Woodhams brought fantastic defensive pressure through wing defence, helping create turnovers and opportunities for Benalla to regain possession.
Olivia Mullaly scans for a teammate.
Lara McConachy and Imogen English produced a solid four-quarter performance in the defensive circle, competing strongly and making the opposition’s attack work hard for the ball.
Imogen English was rock solid in defence on Saturday.
Coach Jemma Smith is incredibly proud of the complete team performance and said that it is super rewarding to see all the hard work and dedication from the players really come together on the court.
Sophia Young provided plenty of run through the midcourt.
The young Panthers now look forward to taking on Bonnie Doon in the first semi-final next Saturday at North Wangaratta at 9:10am, with the winner set to advance to the grand final.
Final Score: Benalla All Blacks 65 def Whorouly 44
