Upsets net a surprise

By Topsy Underwood
WELL what a semi-final weekend.
Do not place any bets on my tips-I got it all wrong.
Beaconsfield has now been overcome and last weekend was the Eagles first loss in two years. Pakenham put on an awesome performance and definitely earned their spot in the grand final.
The game was full of surprises and plenty of standout performances. Melinda Williamson once again played an integral part in the win along with seasoned performer Jodie Bird who certainly plays better in defence and claimed a number of turnovers.
Eagle midcourter Jasmine Maddocks was reasonably quiet and Kellie Holland was outreached by her opponent.
Sunday’s clash between Keysbourough and ROC was also an exciting one.
ROC battled back from a 7-goal deficit but took their foot off the accelerator and missed some vital opportunities to take out the game. Liz Evans and Samantha Downie were Keysborough’s standouts along with sharp-shooter Tennille Voss, who once again outsmarted her opponents.
There were desperate attempts by ROC’s Amy Tiviendale and Jackie Dwyer in the centre and fabulous defence by wing defence Megan Barling resulting in numerous time outs for Keysborough who tried desperately to regroup.
ROC fought back and levelled forcing the game into overtime.
ROC coach Nicole Robbins was in obvious pain throughout the match with the niggling ankle injury she sustained a few weeks ago, but seemed to have something to prove. ROC had their chances but could not convert with Keysbourough getting over the line by two goals.
The first grand final spot has been accounted for and now the battle continues to decide the challenger.
This weekend Keysborough has the opportunity to claim its first-ever grand final spot, but I am sure that Beaconsfield’s loss will not faze the minor premiers.
Beaconsfield looks to be missing one link in their team. Although Jacinta Goldsack has stepped up considerably in place of shooter Sarah Welch, it has left a gap in the Eagles’ midcourt.
Beaconsfield coach Shona Osborne took the risk of placing Under 17 rising star nominee Danielle Llinarres in the centre last week. After an unsteady start in the second half she regrouped well but may not be the best choice for that position in a cut-throat final.
Rumour has it that B-grade goaler Corrine Mackley may make an appearance in the coming match to free up Jacinta Goldsack back into the midcourt.
Keysbourough has nothing to lose and is rarely rattled during finals, so they can be expected to put up a good fight.
The closest they have come to Beaconsfield this season was in round 12 when they lost by 14 goals but they will likely improve on this margin and the crowd will get its money’s worth.
My pick is Beaconsfield by 9 goals.