In what could be viewed as somewhat of an upset victory, the Flinders Div 2 women last night defeated first place Southern Tigers in the elimination final to move on into the Metro League grand final. Tigers finished the season in top spot, with Flinders only narrowly sneaking into 4th place, and with regular team members Megan Reeve and Christine Cooper in Darwin, the team was missing two starters. Ask any of the Flinders team, and they will tell you that the win was never in doubt, it was never going to be easy, but it was never in doubt!

 

Flinders took the lead early, starting confidently, showing patience and poise in offense, and as usual playing excellent team defense. The extremely tall, but very young Tigers team took time to settle, but once they did it was a very close, very competitive game. Annoushka Scharnberg showed her killer instinct when confronted by a few elbows and words from her younger opposition. Annoushka stood over her after having been 'busted' by the referees retalliating to those stray elbows and gave her a mouthful. The same girl was later seen leaving the court with teary eyes. What was said, we can only use our imaginations - lawyers certainly have the gift of the gab.

 

Despite the physicality of the game, and smart coaching by Paul Felici (former coach of the Flinders team) to change up his defence, Flinders stayed within reach of Tigers. Tammy Walker drained a two massive 3's over the Flinders defence, but Rhoni McFarlane had an answer every time, keeping Flinders in touch.

 

Flinders two 'big' girls, Leanne Fraser and Jeanne Motteram took every opportunity as the game moved into the 4th quarter to go to town on the inexperience of the Southern bigs. Their slashing moves through the keyway caused havok, and some smart passing from the Flinders team provided the opportunities that were needed to score almost at will, at crunch time in the game. Despite some last minute fouling, Flinders kept their heads and the ball, and converted from the line to seal the game.

 

 

The Grand Final will be held at Wayville Stadium, 6.45pm on Wednesday 17th December

 

Come and cheer. They have parents, we have you guys! Your vocal support is not only needed, but appreciated! See you out there.