Sandy bay took on the Stingers looking to get back in the win column after the last two challenging matches. Uncharacteristic for the Lionesses, they didn’t come out with their usual fervor as they may have been caught off-guard or maybe looking ahead to the Final. The Stingers took advantage to strike first for a try with a stunning run up the wing. After that wake-up call, Sandy Bay beared down – ferociously defending and relying on our forwards to advance the ball. Leila Davies had several punishing runs, as did 2nd row Ella Snelgrove. Cassandra Skoett was in the thick of things as usual, leading the way with her rucking and tackling. It was Ella Steenson who finally broke through with a tough run to even the score. Sandy bay then followed with another score – as winger Samantha Wilkinson took a pass from No.8 Ahlia Koram and broke away from the Stinger defense. Ella Steenson capped off the scoring in the first half with her second try of the match on another bruising run down the middle. Halftime Score 15-5 Sandy Bay.

In the 2nd half the Stingers showed their resilience – breaking through the Sandy Bay defensive line for 2 long tries. However, the Lionesses banded together and dug deep to put the game away. Hooker Anna Chandler took the ball from a ruck and broke free down the sideline for a magnificent try. For the final try, Cassandra Skoett topped off a marvelous all-around game by busting through the Stinger line, leaving defenders in her wake. Final Score 25-15.

A tough match going into the final for Sandy Bay with a hard-earned win. Unfortunately, the 2nd half of the season has been marred by injuries to some of our senior players. The Lionesses lost star centre-back, Darcey Rummun to a wrist injury early in the 2nd half. She will definitely be missed and best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Sandy Bay is on to the Final! A winner take all match to determine the Champion of the league! The Lionesses will have to up their intensity even more, band together even more tightly to bring the Championship back home! If anyone can do it, it’s this group of Ladies that can! Up the Bay!