Cable Beach earn spot in Grand final after victory against Djugun Flames

The Broome Netball Association’s preliminary final left fans on the edge of their seats on August 29, as the Djugun Flames and Cable Beach put on a spectacular contest for a spot in the grand final. Kicking off at Broome Recreation and Aquatic Centre, the much-anticipated clash saw Cable Beach walking in with confidence after their 64-point win from last week’s game against the Broome Towns. However, Djugun Flames kept them on their toes after GA Tallara Cook and GS Mon Nicholl put Cable Beach in front by securing 13 points in the first quarter, 8-13. Sitting just below Flames on the ladder at number three, Cable Beach returned to the second quarter in strong form, with C Tamisha King guiding the ball to top shooting duo GS Jo Fong and GA Lyeesha Mongoo to bring them back in the lead, 19-23. As the crowd cheered and tension soared, there was a slight pause in the game as Cable Beach discussed some calls made with the umpire. Resuming the game, Cable Beach and Flames’ tested each other with their skills and game plan as Flames’ tried their best to redeem themselves. Despite strong defence on goal by Flames’ WD Ellen Taylor-Hawkins and GK Tahlia Elliss, Cable Beach maintained their lead and shooting accuracy in a nailbiting third quarter, 30-35. As a spot in the grand final drew closer, the two teams increased their focus and intensity by pulling fast manoeuvres and smashing the nets for an epic fourth quarter. While Flames put in their best effort and finished the season strong, Cable Beach beat their rivals with a comfortable nine-point lead, 40-49. Cable Beach will now have a short break before the grand final against the Pearlers on Saturday.