Cougars’ dream run struck by Lightning

GEELONG Cougars have lost to Melbourne University Lightning in the grand Final of the Under-23 Victorian Netball League competition.

The fairytale finish to an incredible finals campaign was not meant to be for the Cougars, going down 42-54 at the State Netball Centre on Wednesday last week.

The Cougars’ dream run began after finishing in fifth position, beating the fourth-placed Bendigo Strikers in the Elimination Final, and then upsetting ladder leaders North East Blaze to reach the Grand Final.

Their opponent, the second-placed Lightning, also beat the Blaze the week before in the Preliminary Final.

The Cougars continued their hot form from the start, finishing the first quarter leading by three points. The Lightning clawed back to head into the main break leading by one point.

However, the Lightning pulled away in the second half, leading by four points at the final change and then holding onto the lead to prevail for the premiership.

For the Cougars, goal shooter Eliza Dunell again led the way with 30 goals. Goal attack Indi O’Connor contributed 11 goals, with Charlize Bellette also scoring one goal.

Lightning goal shooter Kate O’Dwyer was dominant all night, scoring 34 goals, while goal attack Akira McCormack added 12 herself.

Despite the loss, the Cougars can keep their heads high, and will take plenty of momentum into next season.