THE Cooma Fillies are the 2014 league tag premiers, following their 16-10 win against the Bega Chicks on Sunday.
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The Fillies and Chicks maintain a fierce rivalry and it was only fitting that these two sides met in the final match yet again.
The Chicks went into the game buoyed by the 2-0 defeat of the Fillies in the major semi-final, but the Fillies knew that two points was not going to be enough to win this game and were determined to win the first 10 minutes and set the tone of the game.
The Fillies kicked off and following an early knock-on, got some unexpected early possession close to the line.
The Fillies put immediate pressure on Bega’s line and following a strong run from Monique Ingram, the Fillies earned a penalty right in front of the posts, allowing Maree Ingram to slot the ball over the posts to take an early 2-0 lead.
Determined movement in the middle of the field from Kristy Nichols, Anna Steel and Emma Sullivan had the Fillies rolling forward and an uncharacteristic error from Bega’s fullback Kezie Apps right in front of her try-line gave the Fillies another opportunity for points.
Cooma’s Meg Bracher and Abby Schofield were dangerous in the middle of the field, but it was barnstorming line speed from Georgie Clarke that allowed her to cut through the Chicks line, scoring the Fillies’ first try on the flanks.
The Fillies were cementing themselves as the dominant side early as the Chicks struggled to gain any ascendancy.
A line break from Bega’s Apps and Tegan Mundy tested the Fillies’ defence, but fullback Bracher’s diving cover never looked like missing and she saved a sure try.
Shortly after, it was a case of deja vu for Bega’s Apps as a second spilled catch gave the Fillies another chance in good position.
A set play from Maree Ingram found Patrice Clear with room to move and she expertly picked up an unstoppable Jane Peadon who crossed the line untouched.
Strong defence from May Peck, Chloe Murphy and Kirrily Carberry in the middle of the field kept the Chicks in line and both teams showed resolve in their attempts to cement the win for their side.
A line break from Bega’s Tegan Mundy allowed the Chicks to hit back just before half time, but with the conversion waved away and further handling errors from the Bega side, the Fillies maintained control of the game.
In the second half, the Fillies were unwavering in their efforts to hold onto the lead.
Jade Lee tested the Chicks on the flanks, with Tash Stewart supporting well, while Sue Morgan, Trina Brownlie and Bec Robson defended expertly in the middle of the field.
It didn’t take long before the Fillies were at it again, with Georgie Clarke finding herself on the end of another well-constructed play and she safely extended the lead to 16-4.
Brooke Morey tested Bega in attack and defence while her sisters Patrice Clear and Monique Ingram continued to put pressure on the Chicks across the park.
Kayla Jamieson overcame a leg injury to provide welcome relief for Bracher at fullback and as a unit, the Fillies seemed unbreakable in their final test of the season.
With the second half drawing on, a kick from Bega held up in goal and while Abby Schofield fought hard behind the line, the call of simultaneous grounding of the ball went the way of Bega and they were able to extend their lead to 16-10, but it was too late for the Chicks’ resurgence.
With Maree Ingram and Abby Schofield at the helm, and Meg Bracher and Georgie Clarke having the games of their lives, the Fillies were too strong, taking out the grand final in style.
The Player of the Match was awarded to the deserving Meg Bracher whose efforts around the park were outstanding.
The Cooma Fillies and Bega Chicks maintain a fierce rivalry and it was only fitting that these two sides met in the final match yet again.
The Fillies would like to thank their super coach, Craig Schofield, for his continued support and effort throughout the season.
Their success is only a reflection of his commitment and the belief he has in their team.
Similarly, they would like to thank assistant coach Steven Russell for his enthusiasm and guidance this season; Tony Clarke and David Bracher for their constant advice and valuable sustenance, and to Louis Brooks and Dianne Blyton for ensuring they are well equipped to take the field.
Without the continued support of their sponsors, Mainstreet Clothing, Sapphire Coast Physiotherapy and Brian Geach Electrical, they could not have been in the position for success either.
Thank you to the families and friends that travelled down on Sunday to watch the game and to all who supported them this season.
Bring on season 2015.