Euroa fall short in A grade thriller against Shepparton

A GRADE A top of the table clash took place Sunday afternoon at Benalla when the second placed Euroa team and 2024 reigning premiers took to the court against the highly fancied Shepparton A grade side. Coach Ellie Warnock had her side ready and raring to go with the recent return of Mia Sudomirski from an overseas break. Shepparton came out of the blocks firing and were able to put an early lead on the scoreboard. This meant the Euroa girls had to really dig deep in order to drag themselves back into the contest. A few positional changes at the quarter time break (Shepparton had a six goal lead) allowed the dynamic Hollie Reid to continue to be a real thorn in the Bears’ side. Feeding the ball into the likes of Mia Sudomirski (GA) and league goal shooting superstar Liv Morris (GS). Euroa were able to outscore their opposition by two goals during this quarter to have the Bears in their sights at half time. As the second half began, the quality and pace at which the game was being played did not wane. Each player on both sides provided those there to watch with some wonderful highlights. Eliza Hoare (WD) kept up her mid court pressure, whilst the captain/coach duo of Kellie Davidson and Ellie Warnock were battling hard against two high class opponents. The game ended up going goal for goal for the majority of the second half. Euroa were able to gain some momentum at times, only to have Shepparton wrestle it back. In the end the margin was five goals, with the Bears grabbing the win. This means the Euroa team heads into an elimination semi final next weekend against Mooroopna at Memorial Oval Euroa. SCOREBOARD: Euroa 54 defeated by Shepparton Bears 59 B GRADE In a thrilling qualifying final at Benalla on Sunday, Euroa’s B grade team pulled off a dramatic one goal victory over the much fancied Seymour Lions. Despite entering the final as underdogs, the Magpies showed immense grit, determination and discipline to upset the favourites in a nail biting contest that went down to the final whistle. Euroa’s defence was simply sublime. Katy Frewen, Kelly Hill, Ruby Watson, and Brodie West did not relent in their efforts to stop the flow of Seymour goals, putting their bodies on the line in their combined quest to get the ball. Midcourters Millie Watson and Bree Sudomirski maintained the lightning quick pace of the game, passing with vision and producing a string of intercepts and fast breaks that turned the momentum of the game. Euroa’s goaling dream team of Molly Redfern and Sarah Ternes were completely dwarfed by the Lions’ defenders and both Magpie players were head-and-shoulders shorter than their direct opponents. But they did not allow this to detract from their accurate shooting and clever positioning in the ring, riding the bumps, relishing the bruises, and regularly rewarding team efforts all over the court with goals. The final quarter was a nerve wracking affair, with scores tight heading into the final two minutes. With the crowd on the edge of their seats, their fingernails bitten down to the quick and voices hoarse from yelling encouragement, the Magpies managed to guard their slight lead and emerge victorious from what was a marvelous final. SCOREBOARD: Euroa 42 defeated Seymour 41 B RESERVE Euroa came out on top in a thrilling elimination final against the Shepparton Swans on Saturday, securing a 50-40 win in Rochester after leading from start to finish. The team showed great determination, despite the absence of key player Megan O’Bree, who was sidelined due to a back injury. Megan had full faith in her team and they certainly proved her right. The goaling duo of Bree Poole (GA – 20 goals) and Sienna Trotter (GS – 26 goals) were in outstanding form, not putting a foot wrong all day. Annika Sutherland stepped into the GS position late in the game and showed no fear, holding her own against the tight Swans defence and the chilly, windy conditions. Ruby Fowler and Alice Ludlow, both stepping up from the 17 and under side, were excellent contributors, leading and relaying the ball with precision. Abbie Ellis took on the centre position for the entire game in Megan’s absence and never stopped running, even when facing fresh-legged opponents. In defence, Demi Walker (GK) had her hands full with a taller shooter, while Tejuan Sutherland and Keely Wright shared the GD role with fierce competitiveness. It was truly a team effort and that’s exactly what’s needed in finals. Big thanks to the passionate Euroa supporters who made the trip to Rochester; your energy was felt every step of the way. Let’s get behind the B Reserve team next week as we compete against Seymour and celebrate Keely Wright’s 100th game, hopefully with another win. SCOREBOARD: Euroa 50 defeated Shepparton Swans 40 UNDER 15s Euroa’s 15 and under finals campaign came to a close on Saturday as Echuca proved too strong, securing a nine goal win in a hard fought elimination final. Despite trailing from the outset, Euroa refused to roll over, showing heart and determination until the final whistle. Echuca’s attacking precision and defensive pressure kept Euroa on the back foot throughout the contest, but the Magpies never stopped pushing. Belle Ford delivered a standout defensive performance, going toe to toe with one of the league’s most formidable attackers. In the attacking circle, Avie Hill stood tall for Euroa, providing a reliable target and keeping the scoreboard ticking over with sharp movement and confident shooting. On the wing, Maisy Wilson embodied Euroa’s fighting spirit, throwing herself into every contest and refusing to give an inch. Coach Tayla Robinson praised her side’s effort and attitude, despite the result. “We did not lose that game today, Echuca won it,” Robinson said. “They are a very good side and we did a good job to stay within 10 goals all game.” She said while the scoreboard didn’t fall Euroa’s way, the team’s resilience and individual efforts were a testament to their character. “Each girl did her job but we just couldn’t get over the line today. They should be very proud of themselves. “They have been a pleasure to coach and there are exciting times ahead for this young outfit.” Echuca now advances, but Euroa walks away with pride and plenty to build on for next season. SCOREBOARD: Euroa 40 defeated by Echuca 49

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