ECU Souwest Jets are still firing for a WANL grand final

Despite hitting turbulence in the form of a challenging opponent, the ECU Souwest Jets’ historic finals berth is still alive. The Jets faced off against reigning premiers West Coast Warriors on Friday night in the WANL major semi-final round. Although the Jets had managed to pull off an upset victory over the Warriors back in round eight, the contest was all Warriors from the outset, winning 62-30. Despite the Jets welcoming back Giselle Taylor from illness, the Warriors managed to score themselves an early lead while the Jets seemed to struggle converting. However, a late fightback from the Jets saw the margin shaved down to four points at quarter time. The second quarter saw the Jets looking to continue building on their comeback attempt and redeem themselves after the less than ideal start. They were given some hope early with accurate shots on goal by Simone Dalkin but the Warriors continued to extend their lead. In the midst of the tough contest, defenders Ruth Aryang and Riley Culnane began stepping up the pressure while Dalkin continued building on the Jets’ tally with late scores. At half-time, the Warriors held strong to lead 25-18. Despite the Jets continuing to step up in their defensive efforts, the Warriors began to take control of the match and extend their lead even further. While there were moments of promise for the Jets, the Warriors began to dominate and led 42-25 at the final change. The final quarter saw the Warriors’ dominance take effect as they maintained control while the Jets struggled to get themselves in front. Although the Jets managed to have moments of strong defence, the Warriors’ dominance was just too strong and they progressedto the grand final. Because the Jets managed to finish in second place on the WANL ladder, they will have another chance to make the grand final when they face off against Western Roar in Friday’s preliminary final. The Western Roar advanced to the preliminary final after eliminating Curtin Hamersley Comets 61-41.