UPDATE: The Bendigo Strikers have defied the odds, securing a place in the semi-finals of the Victorian Netball League with a thrilling 59-58 victory over the Casey Demons in an elimination final earlier today. This hard-fought win keeps their championship dream alive just two seasons into their league journey.
The Strikers entered the match as the lower seed but showed resilience and skill as they prepare for a knockout clash against Boroondara next Wednesday night at the State Netball Centre. The stakes are high, and the Strikers are eager to continue their remarkable run.
In a nail-biting last quarter, the Strikers initially held a four-goal lead, only to witness the Demons surge ahead with an 8-1 run, flipping the game’s momentum. With just minutes remaining, Strikers’ star shooter Gabe Richards hit three consecutive goals, securing the lead and ultimately the win.
Coach Tracey Brereton expressed her pride in the team’s composure during high-pressure moments. “I was a bit concerned in the early part of that last quarter, but the girls didn’t panic and they stuck to what they had to do,” she stated. With only two errors made in a physically demanding game, Brereton praised the team’s ability to maintain control.
Richards delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 49 goals with a remarkable 92.4% accuracy. Meanwhile, Demons’ Emma Ryde also shined with 51 goals, hitting an impressive 98.0% accuracy rate.
Reflecting on their success, Brereton remarked, “We’re a club that is in just its second year in the competition, and you might say we had no right to making finals this early, but here we are.” The Strikers’ journey continues as they face Boroondara, who recently suffered a defeat against the City West Falcons, raising the stakes for their upcoming match.
This victory marks a significant milestone for the Strikers, who are one of only four clubs in the VNL to have both their championship and 23-under teams reach the finals. The 23-under squad faced a setback in their elimination final against the Geelong Cougars, losing 70-52, but their overall growth this season has been notable, tripling their wins from last year.
As the Strikers prepare for the semi-finals, all eyes will be on their upcoming clash with Boroondara. Fans and supporters are eager to see if the team can continue their fairy-tale run in the VNL finals.
Stay tuned for updates as the Strikers aim to keep their championship dream alive!
