City West Falcons (65) defeated by Geelong Cougars (67)

THE first game of the 2019 VNL finals series was arguably the most exciting and jaw-dropping game of the round with the match between City West Falcons and Geelong Cougars sent to overtime with scores level at full-time. In the end, it was the Cougars that prevailed by two goals, credit to the intent and desperation of every player on court. Geelong jumped out to an early eight-goal lead at half-time credit to their slick ball movement and defensive pressure across the court, but the Falcons did not go down without a fight, steaming home in the last quarter to draw even but it was not enough, falling in extra time.

It was a gruelling and high pressure match but Cougars shooters Ruby Horton and Julia Woolley stood up under pressure time and time again. The two combined effortlessly in the goal circle with silky movement, strong drives and ability to turn and shoot a real feature of their game. Woolley finished at 90 per cent converting 33 from 37 attempts, while Horton slotted 28 from 33. Bridgette Furphy also made her presence felt on court, coming on and slotting six goals from seven attempts. The goalers relished the work of Emily Post, Vanessa Augustini and Kaitlyn Sheringham through the midcourt with all three finding good space in the attacking third and feeding seamlessly into the circle. With the attack end firing, the defensive combination of Brooke Allan, Victoria Honner, Jessica Standfield and Allie Smith all stood tall, applying strong hands over pressure, clogging up space and causing confusion to force turnovers.

City West only dropped one game all season prior to this match but were simply outrun by Geelong who had a point to prove. In the goal circle Jane Cook commanded the ball and used her imposing figure to hold space and shoot, nailing a whopping 58 goals from 63 attempts. Cook shouldered the load in attack with Tahnysha Salanoa and Madelyn Gray unable to find the net to combine for only seven goals. Through the midcourt Maggie Lind and Molly Jovic worked tirelessly to slice through the defensive pressure and deliver ball into the shooters, using their precision passing and timing to their full advantage. Meanwhile the defensive duo of Sarah Szczykulski and Zoe Davies worked in overdrive to try and create half chances while the inclusion of Jacqui Newton was crucial.

The win sees Geelong move into the grand final while the Falcons will face Casey in the preliminary final next Wednesday.