NCWL | Gallant Magpies swooped by Swans in youth girls’ grand final

By Josh Huntly

Jul 19, 2022

Tough contest: Moama’s Niah Bacon and Shepparton’s Holly Egan battle in the NCWL youth girls’ grand final. Photo: Megan Fisher Photo by Megan Fisher

Moama’s youth girls’ campaign drew to a close with a 27-point defeat to Shepparton Swans in the Northern Country Women’s League grand final at Princess Park.

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The Magpies battled hard in a rain-affected decider, but the heavily fancied Swans were too slick on their home deck to take out a 4.6 (30) to 0.3 (3) win, their fourth over Moama this season.

Catch me if you can: Moama’s Jemika Cooper charges across John Riordan Reserve. Photo: Megan Fisher Photo by Megan Fisher

With just one defeat to their name this season, the Swans flew off to a fast start, kicking 2.4 to the Magpies’ one behind in the first term. That scoreline would remain in the second quarter, with no scores registered.

Shepparton managed another two goals in the third quarter to extend its lead to 29 points at the final break, and while Moama added two behinds in the last quarter, it was the Swans crowned premiers at the final siren.

Ground-ball get: Moama’s Beth Morris hunts down the football. Photo: Megan Fisher Photo by Megan Fisher

Moama was well led by Ella Platfuss and the Cooper sisters, Jemika and Shaleah, as the Magpies attempted to wrestle themselves back into the contest.

Shepparton’s Madison Gray was recognised for her three-goal performance with best-on-ground honours.

Ready to roll: Moama’s Ella Plattfuss and Grace McMillan fire up for the big game. Photo: Megan Fisher. Photo by Megan Fisher

For the Magpies, it brings a close to a promising maiden season under coach Matt McKay.

Moama progressed to its first decider courtesy of a 21-point win over Shepparton United in the preliminary final after finishing second with an 8-4 record in 2022.