SLICK passing dismantled Old Collegians, and South Rovers coach Lisa Pender hopes it is the key to unlock a coveted elimination final triumph.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Pender’s side produced a professional performance to topple the Warriors by 19 goals on Saturday.
The triumph sewed up fourth place, gifting the Lions a chance at redemption against Timboon Demons after a round 17 defeat.
Pender called for “more of the same” from her side in the elimination final.
“Hopefully it was a dress rehearsal for next week. After last week’s game, we didn't have it together, so it was important for us to have it together the week before finals,” she said.
“Our passing was fantastic. We were very aware of each other, and our defensive pressure was great.
“We’ve already got good defensive pressure, but in the third quarter I barely saw the ball out of our goal circle.”
The second-year coach said confidence and belief was vital for her rejuvenated side.
“Everyone will be a bit nervous next week,” she laughed.
“A lot of the girls in this team, it’s the first time they’ve made finals in A grade. So this is going to be a big first for a lot of the girls in the team.
“It hasn’t sunk in yet.”
Rovers were buoyed by the form of captain Stacey Dunkley, while Pender also reserved praise for young shooter Abby Sheehan.
South Rovers will play Timboon Demons in next week’s elimination final at Nirranda Recreation Reserve.