THE clash between Cohuna and Koondrook-Barham on Saturday was played in a finals-like atmosphere, despite neither Cohuna nor Koondrook-Barham being in finals contention this season.
The Kangas took the win by just two goals.
Off the back of an annihilation by the Mallee Eagles the previous round, the River Raiders took to the court against the Kangas with a vengeance, looking to prove that in spite of being in a rebuilding phase, and yet to win a game, they can still be a competitive team in the Central Murray A Grade competition.
Kangas playing coach Meg Dye said the result came down to the dying minutes of the game, with her side only just being able to hold on to their lead.
“I believe execution over youth won it in the end,” she said.
“But credit to the Raiders – they pushed us and made us work for it. They won’t be far off getting a win.”
While the Kangas took a while to find their groove in the match, making some thoughtless errors in the midcourt, the Raiders made sure to capitalise on their opportunities early, getting themselves ahead by five goals at half-time.
The scoreline wasn’t even until the final five minutes of the match, when the sides then went goal-for-goal until three crucial intercepts by Kangas defender Breanna Wilson allowed her team to take home the win.
Remy Doyle was among the best for the Raiders, with her speed and agility through the midcourt a real test for the Kangas’ defence.
The Raiders may well have their chance to get that elusive win on the board when they take on an injury-plagued Nyah-Nyah West United on their home court. The Kangas, however, have a tough match ahead against Woorinen.
FINAL WHISTLE:
Cohuna 54
Koondrook-Barham 52
