The penultimate round of TNL took place over the weekend with some interesting results all round.
With their place on the ladder on the line, Devon 19&U's came out of the blocks prepared to take play hard, winning the first quarter 12-7. The Cavaliers came back in the second, scoring equal to Devon 11-11, leaving Devon up by 5 at half time. In both previous meetings this season, Devon took away the win, but they were both close matches. After half time, the Cavaliers capitalised on opportunities and won the second half by 11 goals to take their first win against Devon this season, 44-38.
The Opens Cavaliers team notched up another win, taking a 32-point win against Devon. Devon needed a win to secure a spot in the finals, but unable to shut down Cav's GS Hayley McDougall. Hayley is our Opens Hot Shot of the round, scoring 60 of the Cavs 70 goals.
Cripps 19&U snagged second spot on the ladder, beating the South East Suns by 26. Cripps started strong, but the Suns fought back in the last quarter to win the 4th 17-11. It was a battle of the GS's, with Ruby Clark shooting 37 from 44 for Cripps and Amber Brown shooting 31 from 41 for the Suns. Ruby Clark was our 19&U Hot Shot of the round.
Each time the Suns and Cripps Open's sides have met this season, it has been a tough, close match. This game was no different, after a strong start from Cripps, Suns came back in the second half to win both the 3rd and 4th quarters. In the end, Cripps' first quarter lead of 6 ended up ensuring them the win, 41-34.
Karana 19&U's, while they couldn't make finals this year, went into their match against Kingston Blues aiming to build some confidence before the off-season. And build confidence they certainly did. After a winning first half from Karana, Kingston managed to claw their way back into the match ending it on a draw, 47-47.
Kingston Blues Opens steamed ahead in the clash against Karana, winning the match 84-19. Playing outside of her normal position, Jess Earney in WD took timely intercepts throughout the first three quarters. Congratulations to Jess for being awarded the 2XU Player of the Match for her hard work.
