A Grade

KIMBA DISTRICTS v CLEVE…Grand final day saw some excellent closely-contested games building up to the A Grade; and the big game itself was not a disappointment.

The favourites, Kimba, started confidently with Meagan Lienert intercepting everything in her path. Ellen Zibell and Jess Mills were shooting well in appalling conditions. Kimba quickly got to a five goal nil lead. A timely interception by Letitia Crettenden deep in Kimba’s attacking third kick-started Cleve’s campaign and Cleve clawed their way back to only trail by three goals at quarter time: 15-12

Positional changes within the Cleve attacking line up forced Kimba to take stock and readjust their game. Lisa Zibell for Kimba continued to keep a close check on all attacking moves. After the initial first couple of minutes of adjusting to new positions Cleve did begin their assault on the Grand Final. Abby Gillings and Meisha Quinn were relentless in defence for Cleve trying everything but with Kimba goalies still shooting well they were limited to few rebounds they took their opportunities to be only be down by two goals the score Kimba 25-Cleve 23

The premiership quarter saw Cleve take the already top game to another level with all seven players moving up a gear. WD Fiona Harkness pounced on anything that came her way.

Ny Hornhardt and Deb Taheny were relentless through the centre and patient deep in attack for Cleve.

Letitia Crettenden now in GA continued to take the knocks for her team, but the real leadership started and finished with Mandy Simes, who seldom failed to capitalise on given opportunities. Showing the signs of a true champion performing again in big a match. Cleve 37- Kimba 33

Cleve had broken the back of Kimba but not their spirit, whilst they had the advantage of a four-goal lead Cleve knew Kimba would come back and come back they did with the two Harris girls Shylie and Jess continuing to work hard along with Kim Redden.

But a true champion team stood firm and became the eventual surprise winners.

Cleve 51 d Kimba 48