By Armin Richter
Monbulk’s sole remaining side chasing premiership glory are the Under 15s netballers. After accounting for Berwick last week, the Hawks came up against the rampaging ROC Kangaroos in the 2nd Semi Final for a spot in the Grand Final. ROC had been undefeated through the home and away series, finishing six games clear of their nearest rivals. The two teams had met just a fortnight ago with ROC claiming victory 30-13.
Finals weather greeted the players at Yarra Glen and it was soon seen that the match would be close. ROC got out to small breaks but were pegged back each time by the Hawks and the margin at both quarter time and half time was 1 goal in favour of the blue and white team. Monbulk made their move in the third quarter where successive intercepts found their way to goal shooter Kaitlyn Summers. Kaitlyn was in great form and didn’t look like missing. A late rally by the Kangaroos tightened the match up at 19-18 in favour of Monbulk. The Hawks started the final term on fire with the first five goals. Like all good sides do, ROC rose to the challenge and whittled away Monbulk’s lead but time beat them and Monbulk won an epic match by two goals.
Monbulk will now meet the winner of the ROC v Narre Warren Preliminary Final match in the Grand Final, to be played at Officer on September 21.
Monbulk 26 def ROC 24
Best: Kaitlyn Summers, Isla Stubbs, Stella Dunstan, Isabelle Cross, Bridie McCormick
Goals: Kaitlyn Summers 17, Isla Stubbs 9
