Pigeons deliver statement win in grand final rematch

The Yarrawonga Pigeons A Grade netball side have turned last season’s Grand Final heartbreak into early-season momentum, producing a commanding win over the reigning premiers in a highly anticipated rematch.

Despite being scheduled in the often overlooked 2:30pm timeslot, the clash proved to be the standout game of the round, with the Pigeons putting on a complete and polished performance that showcased both their intent and improvement.

From the opening whistle, Yarrawonga set the tone in what was a fiercely physical contest.

The A Grade girls showed composure under pressure and wasted no time asserting themselves, taking control early and never relinquishing it.

In the goal circle, Maddy Allan and Bridget Cassar were dominant. The pair stood tall against a strong defensive unit, combining accuracy with strong positioning to consistently convert opportunities and keep the scoreboard ticking.

Through the midcourt, Laura Irvine led a relentless and energetic unit. Their drive in attack, coupled with outstanding defensive pressure, created crucial turnovers that allowed the Pigeons to transition quickly and maintain control of the game.

Defensively, the combination of Hannah Symes, Maisee Pell, and Annalise Grinter proved too strong for the Raiders’ attacking end. Working seamlessly together, the trio applied constant pressure, disrupted ball movement, and effectively nullified scoring opportunities to leave the opposition frustrated.

It was a well-rounded team performance, but individual excellence did not go unnoticed, with Maddy Allan and Maisee Pell recognised with best-on-court honours.

The victory not only marks a strong start to the season but also serves as a powerful statement from the Pigeons, who appear determined to turn last year’s disappointment into this year’s success.

B Grade

Score: Pigeons 46 def by Raiders 33

Goals: Sarah Moore 37, Abbey Jones 6.

Yarrawonga came out with intensity from the first whistle and never let the Raiders settle.

A few unforced errors gave the Raiders a glimpse of momentum, however Yarrawonga quickly responded and began to take charge on the scoreboard

The defensive end was relentless all day.

Kira’s extra-long arms caused headaches for the Raiders attack, picking off passes and forcing errors time and time again. Her pressure with Grace Stillard and Lauren Nolan around the contest gave the opposition very little room to move. Lauren

Nolan impressed in her first game, seamlessly fitting in and even picking up a great goal assist from GD!!

The return of Sarah Moore provided an instant boost, with her experience and composure settling the side. She combined well with Grace Eales and Abbey Jones, with the trio rotating through the goal circle to create strong movement and plenty of scoring opportunities.

In attack, Emily McNamara and Alisha Leslie drove hard to the ball and delivered.

Their movement and timing made life difficult for the Raiders midcourt defence, while working seamlessly in combination with Emma Sinclair and Stevie Driscoll.

Yarrawonga’s ability to rotate players was a real highlight, with every player contributing in an impressive team performance.

C Grade

Score: Pigeons 37 def Raiders 25

Goals: Matilda Jaques 20, Briar Rodaughan 14.

Yarrawonga’s C Grade side put on a lively Easter Sunday display, overcoming the Wodonga Raiders 37–25 in a well‑earned and well‑executed win.

With several fresh faces stepping into the C Grade lineup, the Pigeons wasted no time finding their rhythm, showing impressive cohesion right across the court.

In the goal ring, Helena West, Matilda Jaques and Briar Rodaughan were cool and composed, shooting with sharp accuracy to keep the scoreboard steadily ticking over.

Through the midcourt, Miley Driscoll, Bree Strawhorn and Milla Hicks provided plenty of run and drive, while Chantelle Dickson was instrumental in steering the ball cleanly from defence into attack.

Down back, Shani Dickins, Coco Vodusek and Tiarnah Mason worked seamlessly to apply pressure and force turnovers. Sophie Wilson was also influential in WD, collecting a string of taps and intercepts to disrupt the Raiders’ forward momentum.

In a spirited Easter clash, Yarrawonga maintained strong intensity across all four quarters, and if a few pre‑game chocolate eggs helped fuel the effort, they certainly proved to be a winning strategy.

Under 17s

Score: Pigeons 29 def by Raiders 61

Goals: Yarrawonga: Lila Henley 21, Mabel Cope 5.

The U17s Pigeons put together a strong and energetic performance on Easter Sunday against the Wodonga Raiders, despite a tough game the team pushed through even though Wodonga are premiership contenders.

In the goal circle, Lila and Mabel worked well together, showing confidence and composure. Lila was steady and accurate, while Mabel created space with great movement and finished her chances. Both shooters communicated well and kept the scoreboard moving.

Through the midcourt, Emily, Jedda, Lucy and Kendall worked tirelessly to transition the ball from defence to attack.

Lucy, Jedda and Emily were especially strong in attack, driving hard and delivering clean passes into the circle.

Kendall and Scarlett also added pressure and support across the court, helping to keep the flow going.

Defensively, Scarlett, Sienna and Leni played a key role. Scarlett applied strong pressure and picked up important turnovers, while Sienna and Leni were solid in the circle, rebounding well and contesting every ball.

Under 15s

Score: Pigeons 28 def by Raiders 63

Goals: Yarrawonga: Millie Eales 12, Makayla George 12.

A cracking start to the season for the Under 15s.

With a relatively new team and seven girls playing their first O&M game against the reigning premiers, the odds were stacked against then.

However, the score did not reflect how well the team played. The girls battled hard, remained consistent and implemented everything they had trained for during the pre-season.

All the girls had a fantastic game & fought hard until the end. We are looking forward to seeing how the team stacks up against Myrtleford this week. Coaches award: Sophie Archibald. Players player: Millie Eales.