The last two matches of the 2023 GFNL A-grade home and away season took place on the weekend as the finals series looms, completing rescheduled matches from round 16.
South Barwon and Colac played in what amounted to a dress-rehearsal for this week’s upcoming qualifying final, with the result having no real impact on either side’s finals.
No impact, that is, other giving each side a chance to gain a psychological edge to take into the first final, which Colac will hold after beating the Swans 50-36.
After a cagey first period that left South Barwon trailing by two goals, the Tigers pounced, outscoring their opponents 20-9 to take a commanding nine-goal lead into the half-time break.
Though the Swans held their own in the second half, the deficit proved too great to overcome, leaving Colac in second spot on the ladder ahead of third-placed South Barwon.
Goal defence Indya Forde was best on court for the victors, while young South Barwon wing attack Kaylah Nicol continued her run of excellent form to receive her club’s vote for best player.
In the other rescheduled match, St Joseph’s fought back from a six-goal deficit at three-quarter time to draw with St Mary’s at the final whistle.
The ball skills of St Joseph’s centre Elli Leydin were again on display as she dominated the midcourt, while Emma Buwalda converted her chances to shoot 35 goals for Joeys.
Eliza Brown, Ava Pierce and Grace Parker were best on court for St Mary’s, with Parker scoring prolifically to add 39 goals for her side.
St Joseph’s will face St Albans in the elimination final, the second of the knock-out matches this weekend.
