Scott Hill
IN the final game of the 2020 Gawler and District Netball Association’s summer season, minor premiers Sandy Creek took on St George’s Black.
In a tightly contested first quarter, both teams struggled to find their mojo and an efficient path to goal, exchanging frequent turnovers.
Sandy Creek led 8-6 early in the second before St George’s Black stepped up and capitalised on some costly turnovers, going on a pivotal 10-2 run.
The defining third quarter saw Sandy Creek blown off the court, with its rivals finding its range and a consistent path to goal.
St George’s Black snuffed out any sliver of hope that was remaining, saving its best netball for last with players stepping up when it counted most.
As the final whistle blew, St George’s claimed the summer title by a score of 34 to 21.
St George’s Black player Kiara Rawlinson admitted that Sandy Creek was an intimidating opponent, but that it just made the win even sweeter.
“We’ve always remained confident with our team’s abilities and the bond that we share,” she said.
“Sandy Creek are in incredibly talented team which we were always nervous about playing, but knowing we had beaten them earlier in the season, and having our whole team back for the final, we were ready to go.”
Rawlinson said that despite a nervy start, the key was making sure heads didn’t drop, and when her side took the lead, to make sure it kept its foot on the accelerator.
“It definitely didn’t feel as one-sided as the final score was,” she said.
“After being down early we didn’t think we were going to win by the amount we did, and I’m sure some were doubting if we could get the job done at all.
“Even at five goals up we know how quickly a game could’ve slipped from our hands.
“Our focus was to capitalise on all the calls and remain united as a team no matter what happened.”