Another National Netball Championships is done and dusted.
Both Tasmanian teams headed into the play-offs on Monday with some great wins under their belts. The 17&U's set themselves up for a cracker match against ACT, finishing in 6th spot on the ladder. The 17&U's came up against ACT in the second round but couldn't secure the win, they headed into this match looking to make their mark. Steaming away early in the first quarter, the team looked confident and calm across the court. The Sherriff twins in C and WA commanded the ball and the team were 23-7 heading into half time. Despite a late come back from ACT, Tasmania took the win to head into the play off for 5th place at NNC25.
Coming up against QLD, Tasmania were ready and raring to go come Wednesday morning. Tasmania had beaten QLD in round six in an incredible match going right to the wire. This match was no different. Tasmania broke away early and led at half time, 25-19. Impeccable defense from Grace Ebbelaar and Abbie Fooks, and piercing attack from Mackenzie Graves and Isabella Sherriff kept the team close to their counterparts. In a nail-biting finish, QLD took the win 40-39 in the last seconds of the match. This was the end to a truly incredible Championships campaign from the 17&U's, showing maturity beyond their years. The team finished in 6th place overall.
The 19&U's met South Australia in their first play-off match, vying for a spot in the 5th place play-off match. In the two teams previous meeting, SA took the win over TAS in round three. The 19&U's took charge early with the centre court dominating the first and second quarters. Down by 7 at three quarter time, TAS made a comeback to outscore SA by 2 goals in the final quarter. SA eventually took the win 33-28.
TAS then took on NT in the play-off for seventh place. A stellar first half saw the two teams equal at half time. Despite Tasmania's very best effort, Northern Territory took the win 36-29.
Team Tasmania showed grit, determination and skill throughout this year's National Netball Championships. We can't believe it's over for another year. Congratulations to all the other teams, and to all the officials, umpires, coaches, team managers, physio's, supporters and athletes who make the NNC's what they are.
