THEY’RE no longer the bridesmaids at the Jungle – Wallan have finally won the Big V division 2 premiership, overhauling Surfcoast in what was a tense grand final, before the Panthers rallied when it mattered most.
It was a triumph for the Panthers’ role players, who played a critical role in helping get them back into the game after trailing for much of the first three quarters, while eventual grand final MVP Emmie Gardiner put in a huge shift the whole way, particularly from the defensive end.
Gardiner’s early work saw her record two of her six blocks, while a steal from Ranika Guyton and easy layup saw the Panthers get out to a 10-6 lead.
However, Surfcoast settled the better as the quarter went on, and it was a 17-6 run to finish the quarter, helping the Chargers take a 23-16 lead at the first change.
When the Chargers hit a three from the first possession of the second term, it was a game-high 10-point lead, and the Panthers looked in trouble. Doubt started to creep in from previous finals heartbreak.
However, it was the likes of Kody West-Linnett and Carley Cranston who started to put in work on the offensive end, helping cut the margin in half.
Still, the Chargers finished off the quarter the better, and went into the sheds up 39-32.
Whatever words Wallan coach Jarrod Bridge said at half time was a masterstroke.
Cranston two-pointer. Guyton two-pointer. Gardiner two-pointer.
In a flash, the margin was just one point. The Jungle was back up and about, the supporters were well-and-truly into the game.
Cranston enjoyed an excellent quarter, tipping in seven of her points for the term, while the Panthers finally hit the front for the first time since early in the game.
Surfcoast hit back, and the game was tied at the end of the third quarter at 51-apiece.
A three-pointer for Surfcoast to start the last term threatened the raucous atmosphere – and a real credit to the travelling fans for the Chargers for adding to it.
But when West-Linnett hit a big three-pointer with six minutes left, it gave the Panthers back a lead they wouldn’t relinquish again.
West-Linnett erupted – a personal 7-0 run, before adding another big three with 3.45 left – suddenly, it was a 10-point game. This time, Wallan’s way.
Cranston hit a three to seal the game and the premiership. It was finally Wallan’s time.
Gardiner’s MVP was a classical gritty defensive performance – while struggling from the field, shooting 4/14, her 22 rebounds and six blocks provided an anchor for the Panthers when it was needed.
Cranston poured in a game-high 19 points, while West-Linnett scored 15 and Guyton 13.
Wallan will finally join the Big V division 1 competition in 2027. For the girls in teal and black, it’s fair to say it’s been a long time coming.
