Colac stun Towners to end Eagles’ reign

FOR the first time in nine years, Newtown & Chilwell are no longer premiers of the Geelong Netball League (GNL).

Colac defeated seven-time reigning premiers Newtown & Chilwell 41-33 in extraordinary scenes at St Albans Reserve to claim the Tigers’ first GNL premiership and first flag in 24 years.

Trailing by one at quarter-time, Colac took command of the GNL Grand Final in the second term with a 13-9 run, leading 20-17 at the main break.

Bolstered by the convoy of Tiger fans that made the trip from Colac, it was the underdog that extended its lead to nine at the final intermission, placing one hand on the premiership trophy.

Colac co-coaches Tahlia Jeffreys and Jessie Lang urged a strong finish to the contest and that is how the Tigers responded, tallying a 13-10 fourth quarter to convincingly take the season decider.

Michelle and Bec Winch needed to be perfect against the Eagles, and they were, scoring 25 and 16 goals respectively.

On the other side of the court, Uneeq Palavi and Julia Woolley accounted for 17 and 11 goals each for the Eagles. Zanna Woods added an additional five.

Tigers goalkeeper and defensive star Brooke Allan was awarded best-in-final on the day in a historic moment for her junior club.