Tara Murray
Romsey held its nerve late to overcome Wallan in overtime in the Riddell District Netball League elimination final on Sunday.
The Redbacks had to fight every step of the way to overcome the Magpies in what turned out to be a thriller.
The Redbacks led by two goals at quarter time and the same margin at half time. It grew slightly at the final break to three goals.
The Magpies came hard in the final quarter and levelled the scores at 36 apiece to force the game into overtime
With the game up for grabs, the Redbacks found another level to come away with a 45-42 win.
Redbacks coach Lena Way said it took a while for her heart to come back to earth after that result.
“It was really good and I was so proud of my girls who were able to hold it together under pressure,” she said.
“The composure especially for the younger girls was outstanding. I’m very proud to knock off Wallan and push through to the next round.”
Way said the match had been close all day, but thought they had the upper hand for much of it until the Magpies were able to get a few late goals to force the extra time.
She said the group were able to respond in overtime to come away with the win.
“We got a few quick turnovers in the first part of overtime and the girls really held it together in the goal end.
“The defence was outstanding with pressure over the whole court. It was getting those turnovers that got us over the line.”
Way said Maggie Lind was the standout on the court in goal attack. She said the leadership shown by the experienced Lind was really important too.
Way said Cayley Blair had a strong game in wing attack, while their younger players like Emily Miles and Emma Grech really stood up under pressure late in the game.
The Redbacks now face Macedon in a knockout semi final. The Cats lost the qualifying final to Woodend-Hesket by one goal.
Way said it was another challenge they were looking forward to.
“It should be a good game and a good match up,” she said. “I think it will be another close contest.
“They’ve got some of their players back who were injured and some of our players have come back too.”
