The finals-bound Orbost Snowy Rovers under 17 team was the club’s sole victorious netball side in a tough round 16 clash against Lucknow at Lochiel Park.
The Blues gained significant confidence from their 44-35 win over the ladder-leading Magpies, whom they will face once again this Saturday at the Lucknow Recreation Reserve with a grand final berth on the line. Harriet Freeman, Lara Seal and Makayla Edlington were in sensational form to give Orbost strong momentum heading into the post-season.
While the under 17s claimed victory, the under 15 side delivered an equally impressive display, falling just short in a 29-28 thriller against an undefeated Lucknow outfit that has rarely been challenged this season. Kayley Robinson and Leila Barnes were outstanding for the Blues, who will get an immediate second chance when the two sides meet again in Saturday’s qualifying final at Lucknow.
Lucknow’s minor premiers proved too strong in “A” grade for a developing Orbost line-up, running out 77-30 winners. Jorja Savory, Hayley Boxall and Erin Russell were named among the best for the Blues.
It was a similar story in “B” grade, where the ladder-leading Magpies jumped out to a fast start and never allowed Orbost to settle, claiming a 52-20 victory.
Tamara Heyne and Edlington battled hard for the Blues.
In “C” grade, Lucknow showcased its dominance with an emphatic 63-12 win over a brave Orbost squad. Narelle Macalister and Meg Nixon led the rearguard effort for the Blues against an opponent that suffered just one defeat during the home and away season.
Lucknow needed a win in “D” grade to secure a finals berth and delivered with a 55-17 result to seal second spot on the ladder. Jemima Seal and Helen Nixon were named among the award winners for Orbost.
The under 13 contest featured high-standard netball, with a developing Blues side testing the second-ranked Magpies at times. Lucknow had the answers in key moments to record a 49-33 win, with London Austin and Ruby Faithfull once again standing out for Orbost.
