Euroa is one step closer to securing a spot in the Goulburn Valley League A-grade grand final following a composed and classy win over Tatura in Sunday’s semi-final.
The Magpies ended Tatura’s dream 2023 campaign with a 39-32 triumph at Tatura Park.
A brilliant 12-6 opening term laid the platform for the Magpies, with skilful goal-attacker Mia Sudomirski leading from the front.
Sudomirski found support from talented defensive duo Tylah Marchbank and playing coach Ellie Warnock as Euroa entered the main break 19-13.
A change in personnel from the Bulldogs saw them inject some firepower through the midcourt, with Taylor Rokhar and Emma Quinn slotting into wing defence and wing attack respectively.
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Not so fast: Euroa’s Ellie Warnock looks to defend. Photo by Megan FisherImage 2 of 7
Providing a lift: The Tatura crowd cheering the home team on. Photo by Megan FisherImage 3 of 7
In motion: Euroa’s Tylah Marchbank on the move. Photo by Megan FisherImage 4 of 7
Link-up play: Tatura’s Emma Quinn with ball in hand. Photo by Megan FisherImage 5 of 7
Looking to receive: Euroa's Mia Sudomirski provides a passing option. Photo by Megan FisherImage 6 of 7
Last ditch: Tatura’s Jasmine Fraser guards a shot attempt. Photo by Megan FisherImage 7 of 7
Fast pace: Tatura’s Elsie Boyer seeks an attacking pass. Photo by Megan FisherMolly Kennedy swapped into goal defence and before long Tatura had mounted a serious comeback.
Tatura edged within four goals (28-24) early in the fourth quarter and looked set to use its rampant momentum, but a few missed opportunities under the goal ring saw the Magpies take advantage and hold on for a seven-goal victory.
The Bulldogs weren’t able to replicate their eye-catching form from week one of the finals series and look towards building on their success this year in 2024.
Euroa will turn its gaze to Sunday’s preliminary final clash against Mooroopna at Deakin Reserve — a feat the club hasn’t achieved in more than a decade.
“It’s so exciting for the whole club. I can’t remember the last time the club made it to a preliminary final,” Warnock said post-match.
“I think our defensive pressure was the best it had been all year.
“We’ve had lapses of rushing it (down the court) but when we do take a step back and be steady with the ball we work so much better and I think that helped get us the win today.
“Today we did the same thing, we let ourselves have these lapses but we did well to get out of it today, but against Mooroopna we didn’t, so hopefully we can play four quarters of consistent and strong netball.”