A second half domination by Montmorency 1 topped off a spirited come from behind win against Bundoora 1.
Montmorency’s ball control and desperation in defence allowed them to come back from five goals down early in the final quarter at La Trobe University on Friday night, winning 24-21.
Bundoora opened the scoring from the first centre pass, although it was Montmorency who would head into quarter time with a one-goal advantage.
Bulls goal attack Emily Williams was too much to handle in the attacking third, using her agility to manoeuvre around opponents at ease.
Montmorency goal shooter Shannon Tresider used her height to great effect, scoring five of the Magpies six first-quarter goals. Goal defence Holly Denholm was terrific in the goal circle, intercepting countless Bundoora attacks.
Bundoora took control of the match in the second quarter, leading 14-8 at half time.
Goal attack Emily Williams continued to dominate for Bundoora, shooting six goals in the second term. Centre Jacinta Tonkin controlled the midcourt and goal defence Rachael Furgal ensured Montmorency was kept to only two goals for the quarter.
Montmorency’s wing defence Rebecca Lollback tried her heart out, although the weight of entries was too much to handle for the Magpies.
Montmorency regained ascendancy in the third quarter, halving the deficit to three with ten minutes left to play.
Magpies centre Jorja Hollow covered the court extremely well, setting up numerous goals and forcing turnovers, while goal defence Holly Denholm continued to impress, repeatedly getting her fingertips to Bundoora attacking plays.
Bundoora wing attack Tessa Bruno didn’t waste a pass for the Bulls and rarely missed a target.
Bundoora looked on their way to victory, after scoring the first two goals of the quarter which extended their lead to five.
However, Montmorency had other ideas, lifting their intensity and efficiency, which allowed them to register a stunning come-from-behind victory.
Montmorency goal attack Belinda Nicholson was huge in the final term, scoring a game-high six goals.
Goal shooter Dani Howe was a rock under pressure and did not looking like missing late for the Magpies.
Bundoora wing defence Lauren Hubbard positioned herself well all quarter, allowing for numerous interceptions.
Montmorency’s Holly Denholm was terrific all game, using her long wingspan to stop numerous Bundoora attacks. Centre Jorja Hallow was also influential for the Magpies, outworking her opponent when it mattered.
Bundoora’s Emily Williams was the Bulls most effective in the attacking third, while goal defence Rachael Furgal tried her hardest all game in defence.
Final score: Montmorency 1 (24) def Bundoora 1 (21)
