A THIRD-quarter blitz has sent Swan Hill into this Saturday’s second semi-final.
The Swans piled on 16 goals to four, breaking open an otherwise ultra-competitive contest and setting up an 11-goal qualifying final win over Woorinen, 51-40.
Swan Hill will now meet ladder leaders Lake Boga for a spot in the grand final.
Woorinen face a sudden-death match against a rejuvenated Mallee Eagles at Barham on Sunday.
Swan Hill co-coach Madeleine Nalder was pleased to secure the win in a battle of attrition in warm spring conditions.
“Woorinen are a great side and we knew it was going to be a tough contest and it was,” Nalder said.
“The scoreline doesn’t really represent how tough the game was from a mental and physical element, but we’re very happy to get the win and move on to next week.
“The most pleasing aspect is that we were able to stick with them in the first half and slowly get the game played more on our terms in the second half.
“There are always momentum shifts within games in finals, so for us to stick with them and not let the score blow out too much before half-time was a real positive.”
With Woorinen coach Tayla Bennett a strong presence in goals and Tessa Demaria working hard in their defensive end, the Tigers set up a three-goal lead at half-time.
But that was where the joy would end for the yellow and black army, as the Swans took complete control after the main break.
“They really had it over us before half time, so we made a couple of changes,” Nalder said.
“While we didn’t make drastic changes to our game plan or style, we just knew that we could all bring a little bit more to the table as individuals. We just asked for a little bit more from everyone at half-time.”
Zoe Morris was a strong focal point in goals for Swan Hill, along with Ingrid Condely, while Karli McIntyre provided a lot of drive through the midcourt and worked tirelessly to create turnovers.
Nalder was aware of the challenge that awaits her side, having to Lake Boga in round 10.
“It’s a great opportunity, we only played them once this season and they beat us, so we’ll definitely go in as the underdogs,” Nalder said.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge, we’ll just go out there with a positive mindset, take the game on and just see what happens.”
FINAL WHISTLE:
Swan Hill 51
Woorinen 40
