Netball
26 August, 2024
Panthers prevail over spirited Cougars
Rupanyup defeated a spirited Kaniva Leeor by 26 goals at Harrow Recreation Reserve on Saturday in the elimination final in the Horsham District Football Netball League.
The Panthers were strong early, led by Meg Cashin and their goalies, Bianca Drum, and Zanaiya Bergen, to take a ten-goal lead into quarter-time. They didn't let up in the second quarter, extending that lead to 18 goals at half-time.
The Cougars fought hard in the third quarter, not going down without a fight, to win the quarter by a goal to trail by 17 at three-quarter time.
The Panthers started to pull away in the last, scoring 17 goals to eight to win 64-38.
Drum and Bergen finished with 30 goals apiece for the Panthers, with Blair Burke top-scoring for the Cougars with 26 goals. Lauren Brown and Zoe Hawker were best on the court for the Cougars.
The Panthers will host Kalkee next week at Rupanyup Recreation Reserve in the semi-final next Sunday.
This loss ends the Cougars' terrific season. After moving to A-grade this season, they have taken some scalps and played well. Coach Kylie King said everyone should be proud.
"We sat down after the game and reflected on the year, and everyone should be super proud of where we have come from," King said.
"Our club culture is excellent at the moment. Everyone is performing well, and I am pleased with where we are."
King said that everyone at the club played their role and discussed some players.
"Zoe Hawker is a regular strong performer for us and gives 100%, and you know when she crosses that line, she gives everything," King said.
"Lauren Brown has been with the club for many years, and she is traditionally a midcourt or wing attack, but this year, she swung into wing defence in the last half of the season, played well, and has loved that change.
"Ruby Gordon is an up-and-coming junior development player and has become a core part of our team."