Cougars crumble under pressure



Wednesday 17 August 2011

Cougars crumble under pressure

By Gemma Gwilliams - editor@thenewsport.com.au 


Nothing can be assumed when it comes to finals and this week Rattle N Hum won the golden ticket to the grand final against the undefeated Central Cougars. The Cougars started with a one goal lead but by half time Rattle had the advantage.


Both teams played very defensive games but when it game to converting the opportunities at goals, Rattle simply did their job. In the third quarter the Cougars found themselves in an unfamiliar position while trailing by five goals. They fought hard in the final quarter but it simply was not enough and Rattle took their well deserved win 18 – 4. The Central Cougars will now have one more opportunity next week to claim a spot in the grand final.


Same goes for A grades third and fourth placed team with Young Guns pulling through after defeating Blood Orange. After defeating Rattle N Hum last week the Guns were favourites to win, however when down by two goals at half time no one was sure which way the game would go. Blood Orange played one of their best games of the season with both great defence and shooting skills on display. The Guns however didn’t see losing as an option as they took the game with a final score of 32 – 26. Young Guns will now play Cougars for the final spot in the final. 


The A reserve semi finals were far less eventful with both games cancelled due to forfeit. A great disappointment to everyone but it could not be avoided due to low player numbers and injuries. Sugarland Shooters forfeited against the Julatten Jewels meaning the Jewels go straight through to the grand final. The Crocs forfeited to Pink Panthers and as a result are finished for the season. Sugarland Shooters and Pink Panthers will play next week to win the last spot in the grand final.


B grade produced another great game when the third placed Breakers defeated the fourth place Bad Habitats. It was a game of survival as the losing team is finished for the season. By full time both teams were tied at 16 all after a very evenly matched game. The Breakers took every opportunity in the extra time they were given to ensure their season did not end and their hard work paid off. They managed to score 8 goals and worked hard enough in defence to only allow the Bad Habitats one goal. With a final score of 24 – 17 the Breakers will play next week to try obtain a spot in the grand final.


The top B grade team, the Jets, brought a big upset on the young U-14 Rep side with a win of 39 – 12, giving them a grand final position. With the Jets on fire and the Rep side missing key players due to injury it was a tough game for the young side. The Jets played a very skilled game and didn’t let any opportunities go to waste. The Rep side will take on the Breakers next week to try win a spot in the grand final.


The Douglas Netball Association would like to congratulate Blood Orange, Crocs and Bad Habitats with their involvement this season. Although finishing fourth in their respective divisions all three teams have had a great season and are well respected for their skill and sportsmanship on the courts. Hope to see you all next season!


Next week’s draw:

6:30

Breakers v U-14 Rep Team

Sugarland Shooters v Pink Panthers

7:30

Cougars v Young Guns