KORUMBURRA Bena capped off its stunning A Grade season, Elisha Nicholas delivering the winning goal against Nar Nar Goon when it seemed certain the match was headed for extra time.
She exuded calm as she broke Goon hearts after the umpire spotted contact with the scores locked on 43 apiece, celebrations erupting among Giants players and supporters the moment Nicholas scored.
The buzzer had already sounded when it became apparent Nicholas would have a chance at glory.
It was an apt conclusion to a stunning match that was close throughout, Korumburra Bena pulling away a little in the last quarter to lead by four goals before Nar Nar Goon surged.
The decibel level soared in the dying minutes, shrieks of excitement and anguish emerging from members of the large crowd, adding to an electric atmosphere.
Talented basketballer Chelsea Fox took charge as the Giants Centre, her athleticism, sure ball handling, speed and composure driving forces in Korumburra Bena’s win and earning her the Best on Court medal.
Playing coach Gemma Dixon was a pillar in defence for the victor with her telling intercepts and fair but uncompromising physicality, while non-playing coach Kate Attenborough maintained a largely calm demeanour at the breaks.
However, at the final change the passion flowed as Attenborough implored the players to “Show everybody why we finished on top of the ladder and got through to a Grand Final.
While the Giants did just that, they needed every ounce of determination to see off the tenacious and classy Nar Nar Goon.
Respect between the sides was apparent at the presentation, the match an illustration of sport at its finest, neither team giving an inch, as illustrated by some robust clashes as players competed for the ball, but there was nothing untoward.
Goal Attack Darcy Utber’s impressive shooting in tough windy conditions gave Nar Nar Goon every chance in what was a high standard and zippy game, characterised by decisive ball movement.
The Giants lost just two games in a memorable campaign, finishing the regular season a couple of wins ahead of Nar Nar Goon, the Grand Final adversaries beating each other once on the way to finals, Korumburra Bena then winning its Semi Final against the Goon.
They were all competitive clashes, culminating in a fitting finale.
