Euroa A Grade dominate Grand Final rematch

A GRADE Euroa A Grade produced a dominant performance to defeat Echuca 67–42 in a highly anticipated grand final rematch during Indigenous Round. The Magpies were sharp from the outset, racing to a 40–19 lead by half time thanks to slick ball movement, tight defence and a strong conversion rate in the goal circle. Captain Kellie Davidson led by example in goal defence, reading the play beautifully and turning over key possessions. Hollie Reid impressed as usual with her speed and drive in her 99th club game, while Sophie Owen showed her versatility, rotating through all midcourt positions with composure. Eliza Hoare played a strong game in wing defence, applying smart pressure on Echuca’s feeders. In attack, Sami Kreltszheim started in wing attack and later moved into goal attack, linking seamlessly with Olivia Morris, who continued her outstanding season by scoring her 646th goal, an incredible feat with six rounds still to play. Mia Sudomirski also played a solid role through the midcourt before taking a short break from the team to travel overseas. Under the guidance of coach Ellie Warnock, the team continues to build momentum and show great depth across the court. Warnock’s steady leadership has been key in developing combinations and keeping the squad focused during a demanding stretch of the season. With another strong win under their belt, Euroa are looking well placed heading into the final weeks of the home and away season. Better players: Kellie Davidson, Hollie Reid, Sami Kreltszheim. B GRADE By MOLLY REDFERN From the first whistle, it was clear this game would be a close, hard fought contest. The Echuca Bombers started strong and took an early lead in the first quarter. The Euroa Magpies initially struggled to find their rhythm but worked hard to reduce the scoring gap. The Bombers entered the second quarter with a 6 goal lead, making it clear the Magpies needed to mount a serious comeback. Defenders Kelly Hill and Grace Warnock applied pressure, stopping plays before they reached the ring of the accurate Echuca shooters. With the help of some Watson wizardry, Ruby Watson and Millie Watson forced turnovers in defence, showcasing a strong team effort between the midcourters and defenders. In attack, Bree Sudomirski continued to make strong leads and fed the ball accurately all game, even while facing physical defence from the Echuca side. Shooters Sarah Ternes and Molly Redfern worked the ball around the ring, creating space and setups despite the long reach of the opposition defenders. As the Euroa Magpies found their rhythm, the gap continued to close. By the final quarter, the Magpies held a one goal lead and, determined to maintain their advantage, every player contributed. Megan O’Bree provided timely support, giving the Watsons a break and calming the pace and pressure of the match. The defenders grabbed rebounds, the midcourters forced intercepts, and the shooters converted opportunities, all of which led to a win for Euroa. It was a strong result for the Euroa B Grade side, with a three goal win in a tightly contested game. Next week marks a significant milestone, as Kelly Hill plays her 350th Goulburn Valley League game when Euroa faces the Shepparton Bears. A match that is expected to be another closely contested contest. The B Grade side will be hoping to come together again and give the club another reason to celebrate on Ball Night, alongside Kelly’s remarkable achievement. SCOREBOARD: Euroa 43 defeated Echuca 40 Best players: Millie Watson, Grace Warnock, Ruby Watson. B RESERVE Euroa B Reserve overcame a spirited Echuca to record a 42–34 victory, maintaining their strong hold on second place on the ladder. Echuca challenged hard early and led 21–19 at halftime. But Euroa lifted in the third quarter to take a 32–27 lead into the final break, then closed out the game with composed play to seal an eight goal win. Ella Hill, playing her first game at B Reserve level, quietly reached her 50th club game - a milestone only realised after the final siren. She was a reliable target in goal shooter, combining well with fellow goaler Sienna Trotter, who fed the ball in with accurate delivery. The midcourt was anchored by Megan O’Bree and Abbie Ellis, both flying under the radar but crucial in directing play and guiding the younger players around them. Their leadership and vision helped keep the team organised and focused throughout the contest. Defensively, Demi Walker stood out in goal keeper with key intercepts, while Tejuan Sutherland worked hard in goal defence, applying constant pressure. Depth was boosted by Alice Ludlow, in just her second B Reserve game, and the improving Ruby Fowler. Marnie Salter provided steady drive and support through the midcourt, completing a strong team effort. Euroa continue to build momentum heading into the final rounds of the season. Better players: Demi Walker, Ella Hill, Tejuan Sutherland. 17 AND UNDER In a special Indigenous Round clash, Euroa and Echuca paid tribute to First Nations peoples with an Acknowledgement of Country, honouring elders past, present and emerging. Both teams took to the court in striking Indigenous uniforms, setting the tone for a spirited and respectful contest. Echuca started strongly, with their first two goals hard fought and well earned. Euroa responded with the third goal, but missed opportunities proved costly as Echuca settled into rhythm. Despite facing a physical defence, Ella Hill stood her ground impressively in goal shooter. Marnie Salter pulled off a spectacular intercept, though Echuca quickly regained control and capitalised. Euroa showed resilience, scoring two much needed goals to stay in the contest. The first quarter ended with Echuca ahead, 9–6. Charli Pittock worked tirelessly in goal keeper, contending with a tall and commanding Echuca shooter, while Macey Watson showed great timing and vision, pulling in a crucial intercept. As Euroa clawed back within two goals, Ella Hill began to find her rhythm and bouncing back confidently after a rocky start and scoring with assurance. Alice Ludlow added drive into the circle, shooting cleanly under pressure. Midcourters Ruby Fowler and Marnie Salter combined smoothly, helping Euroa remain in striking distance at 19–14 at half time. Echuca lifted again in the third term, extending their lead despite Euroa’s continued effort. Charli Pittock stood strong in defence and the team worked hard across the court, but Echuca’s quick ball movement saw the margin widen to 31–22. Euroa remained composed, showing consistent effort across all areas of the court. Echuca maintained their intensity to the final whistle, but Euroa did not back down. Marnie Salter continued to intercept and disrupt play, while Charli Pittock remained a steady presence in the circle. Macey Watson was relentless in defence, making several attacking plays that pushed the ball forward. Although the scoreboard did not reflect the full effort, Euroa fought to the end, finishing with pride in a 48–29 result in Echuca’s favour. A proud performance against a strong team on a meaningful day for the club and community. Best players: Macey Watson, Charli Pittock, Ella Hill. 15 AND UNDER The 15 and Under team came out with a point to prove performance at Echuca on Saturday, starting far better than in their round two encounter earlier in the season. With renewed focus and intensity, they led at quarter time, showing clear signs of redemption in the making. Midcourter Molly Fowler was a standout, holding her own against tough opposition and injecting real pace and energy into the game. Her zippy movement and sharp feeds kept the attacking end ticking. Belle Ford was superb against a significantly taller opponent, unsettling the Echuca feeders and disrupting their confidence when passing into the ring. Bethan Burton continued to impress in both wing attack and centre, highlighting her versatility. Her recent experience in representative netball has only sharpened her smart decision making, earning her third best on court. Despite Euroa’s strong start, the opposition pulled away in the second half, eventually taking the win 55–34. While the final score did not reflect the early promise, the improved start and standout performances gave the team plenty to build on in readiness for their Round 13 clash with third-placed Shepparton Bears at Deakin Reserve.

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