13-and-under Magpies triumph over Mulwala in epic overtime decider

Played at Moama Recreation Reserve court one, it was a mid-court rock-fight to start as both sides struggled to find the net through the first quarter.

The game began to open up with the attack moving freely, and Moama was able to capitalise on its chances more effectively, taking a 14-12 lead at the main break.

While the Magpies managed to stay a step ahead through the middle quarters, Mulwala refused to go away, trading blows throughout the third term.

Moama widened its lead slightly at three-quarter time to a trio of goals, with a massive final frame looming.

The Lions came out hard down the stretch, nabbing the lead on two separate occasions to put the Magpies on the back-foot, but they managed to hold their nerve.

With nothing separating the two sides, Mulwala managed to put one through on the siren to draw scores level and send the game into overtime.

In the first half of overtime, the Lions and Magpies couldn’t be split, with the latter barely keeping its nose in front by a goal.

In the do-or-die moments, it was Moama who stood tallest, with its goalers looking rock solid in front of the hoop.

It was a party at their home venue as the Magpies’ faithful roared at the overtime siren, their girls taking the game by the neck in the clutch 36-34.

Moama’s Lexi Wright was named best-on-court for her work in centre and wing attack.

“I’m still feeling pretty sick after that finish, to be honest,” Moama coach Rachael Whitelegg said.

“It was so close all the way through, but that’s how you want a grand final to be.

“The girls showed true grit today and hung on for the win, they handled the pressure very well.

“The girls kept leading from the front, Lexi Wright in the middle there really deserved the best on today; she’s been my most consistent player all year.

“The girls followed her lead and rallied behind her, so, I’m just super proud of all of them.”