Bannockburn beat Belmont in nail-biting eliminator

BANNOCKBURN has hung on to win its Geelong & District Netball League (GDNL) Elimination Final by the slimmest of margins.

The Tigers pulled themselves over the finish line against Belmont by one goal, ending the Lions’ first finals campaign in 22 years, 38-39, at St Albans Reserve.

The game began as it finished, as Belmont led narrowly at quarter time 8-7.

A couple of scores from turnovers in the second quarter gave Belmont further confidence, leading by three at half time, 17-14.

Bannockburn responded well on the other side of the main break, outworking Belmont in the third and more importantly on the scoreboard 7-12, taking the lead with a quarter to play (24-26).

The Tigers hung on in the dying seconds to win by one point, creating a heartbreaking finish for the Lions supporters in attendance.

Ella Wasik finished the afternoon with 23 goals and Tamara Watts was important as well with 16 goals for Bannockburn.

Angelique Ross dominated in the attacking third for Belmont with 30 goals and Tegan Edwards scored eight goals in the loss.

Best on court performances for Bannockburn went to Ellie Kennedy, Rosie Shanahan and Watts. Belmont’s Yianna Ross and Edwards earned the same accolade for the Lions.

Belmont’s season is over, but Bannockburn face off with Corio in next Sunday’s Semi-Final encounter.

East Geelong and Winchelsea go head-to-head in Saturday’s Second Qualifying Final for a spot in the Grand Final.