Bundoora 1 have turned the tables from their defeat to Heidelberg 1 in the final round of the regular season last week, defeating the Tigers by five goals in Friday night’s semi-final to advance to the Section 1 grand final at La Trobe Sports Stadium.
The Bulls suffered their first loss of the season to Heidelberg two Friday’s ago, allowing the Tigers to secure fourth spot and face Bundoora again in the second semi-final.
But, this time, a different result occurred. Although they trailed in all quarter breaks, a brilliant 10-4 final term saw Bundoora claim a 29-24 victory, with the club booking a side in a Section 1 summer grand final for the first time since 2017-2018.
Section 1 competition leading goal shooter Amy Holliday was missing for the Bundoora, however Emily Duggan (18 majors) and Lauren Hubbard (nine) stepped up to keep the scoreboard ticking for their side.
Stephanie Shaw produced 16 majors for the Tigers and was the standout for her side. Her defensive pressure added to her team’s confidence throughout the match.
Both sides had a strong first quarter, with the first five minutes going goal for goal. Heidelberg would gain the early advantage with seven majors from Shaw giving her side a two-goal quarter time lead.
After scoring five goals in the first term, Duggan was able to produce six majors to help Bundoora close the gap in the second quarter.
The Bulls were able to limit the Tigers to just six goals for the term, mainly thanks to goal defence Rebecca McDonagh, who made the first half her own by winning just about every gain that went the Bulls way.
Heidelberg still maintained a one goal lead at the main break but made a few changes heading into the second half, including Emily Williams, who spent the opening two quarters in the midcourt, making the switch to goal attack.
A lower scoring third term followed with both sides registering five majors a piece, setting up a fascinating final quarter.
Scores were locked at 21-21 in the early stages of the last term before Bundoora flicked the switch and produced some scintillating netball and quickly gain what would prove to be an unassailable lead.
The five-goal margin would be enough to see the Bulls advance to this week’s grand final, where they will face Montmorency 1, who defeated Heat 1 by four goals in the other Section 1 semi-final.
