Chelsey Wright was flying around the court for Tongala. Photos: Aidan Briggs
Last year’s Murray Netball League premier has been eliminated after a scintillating A-grade final.
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Moama and Tongala went head-to-head during Saturday’s preliminary final at Barooga Recreation Reserve.
Tongala’s journey to the match against Moama was filled with nail-biting encounters, having defeated Deniliquin by one goal in the first elimination final.
Halle Gray takes a strong intercept.
Photo by
Aidan Briggs
Tonny then edged past Nathalia by four goals in the semi-final to advance to Saturday’s prelim.
For Moama, the Magpies fought hard against the imposing Rumbalara in the qualifying final but lost 55-44.
Saturday’s do-or-die clash started with both sides going back and forth for most of the first quarter before Tongala began to assume control.
Milly Brock sets for a shot attempt.
Photo by
Aidan Briggs
Tonny player-coach Grace Hammond and wing attack Chelsey Wright were both zippy and dynamic across the court throughout the first term.
In the second quarter, the Blues led by four goals (12-16) before the Magpies began to gain some ascendancy.
After halftime, Moama trailed by two goals but soon claimed the lead.
The Magpies’ pressure and intensity was clear with each restart after a goal, with Tonny’s players immediately swarmed, leading to countless turnovers.
Grace Hammond was busy through midcourt.
Photo by
Aidan Briggs
Moama grew its lead to six goals by the end of the third.
Not willing to die wondering, Tongala burst out of the gate for the final term, closing the gap to two goals on multiple occasions.
However, Moama remained firm and won the match 54-56 in a thrilling clash to advance to next weekend’s grand final.
Next weekend, Moama will face juggernaut Rumbalara in the grand final on Saturday at Moama Recreation Reserve.
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