B RESERVE

The All Blacks B Reserve side has booked itself a place in next weekend’s grand final after overcoming a tough Bright outfit in a hard-fought clash at the weekend.

Having only faced Bright once during the home and away season, suffering a 12-goal loss, the Panthers knew they were in for a challenge and entered the game wary of the unknown. But true to form, the All Blacks displayed focus, courage and selfless teamwork, with the victory coming as a result of a true whole-team performance.

In defence, Kristy Hanrahan, Taitum Hemming and Chloe Dods were relentless, shutting down Bright’s attacking opportunities and refusing to allow easy passes or goals. Through the centre, Catherine Dennis and Joey Gall worked tirelessly under the hot court conditions, executing tactical plays and never wavering in their commitment.

Bec Mathieson and Elenor Renkin showed great vision and patience through the midcourt, breaking down Bright’s defence and feeding the shooters with accuracy. In attack, Brooke Bradshaw’s steady leadership combined beautifully with young Bri McNair’s energy and precision. The pair proved a formidable combination in the ring, guiding the Panthers to a strong and composed finish.

The game remained tight early, with scores locked at seven apiece at quarter time. The Panthers pulled away to lead by six at half time, held a four-goal advantage at the final break, and then powered home with a dominant last quarter to secure a 10-goal win.

It’s been a remarkable turnaround for the B Reserve side, who started the season slowly and only managed to finish fifth on the ladder. Now, after a string of gutsy performances, they’ve earned themselves a shot at the ultimate prize - a grand final showdown against the in-form Bonnie Doon.

The Panthers know the challenge ahead will be tough, but if their semi-final performance is anything to go by, they’re more than ready to silence the doubters and give it everything they’ve got in the big dance.

Score: Benalla 34 def Bright 24

UNDER 15S

The U15s side travelled to North Wangaratta once again to take on Bright. After only a one-goal win in the home and away season, the team knew they would need to give everything they had.

The opening quarter was a true battle, with both sides forcing turnovers and applying relentless pressure, leaving the score locked at 7-7 at quarter time. In the second quarter, the young Panthers began to show their strength.

Defenders Libby Renkin, Charli Levy and Imogen English dominated with crucial rebounds and intercepts, turning defence into attack with ease. Their efforts allowed Darcie Jackson and Sharni Hughes to deliver precision feeds into the goal circle, where Lola Crook and Harper Robertson finished off beautifully.

Bright came out firing in the third, applying intense pressure and forcing small errors. But with teamwork and composure, Benalla steadied to maintain their lead, heading into the final break ahead 23-19.

Knowing they had to give their absolute best in the last, the Panthers lifted once more. They came hard at the ball, maintained composure in possession, and finished the game with confidence and strength.

The final score read Benalla 35 to Bright 33, securing the team a well-deserved spot in the grand final. Every player should be incredibly proud of their effort, and we can’t wait to see them hit the court next weekend

Score: Benalla 35 def Bright 33

GRAND FINAL SIDES:

U15s

Coach: Jemma Smith

Team Manager: Renae Hughes

Players: Lola Crook, Harper Robertson, Sharni Hughes, Darcie Jackson, Imogen English, Libby Renkin, Charli Levy, Tarni White, Emma Hallam-Manning

B Reserve

Coach: Renae Hughes

Team Manager: Shane Hughes

Players: Brianna McNair, Brooke Bradshaw, Rebecca Mathieson, Cathrine Dennis, Chloe Dods, Taitum Hemming, Kristy Hanrahan, Joey Gal,l Ellex Best, Eleanor Renkin, Renae Hughes

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Friday, 3rd February 2023

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