Boisdale Briagolong “A” grade champions

Boisdale Briagolong has claimed the 2026 East Gippsland Football Netball League “A” grade netball premiership, overcoming minor premiers Lucknow in a hard-fought 42-38 victory at Bairnsdale City Oval on Saturday.

Lucknow entered the match as the season’s minor premier, looking to secure a title after their last grand final appearance ended in defeat to Orbost Snowy Rovers in 2024.

Meanwhile, the Bombers, who finished the regular season in third place, returned to the decider determined to make amends for last year’s five-goal loss to Stratford.

The victory secures Boisdale Briagolong’s first “A” grade premiership cup since their seven-goal win over Wy Yung in 2022.

The match opened with intense defensive pressure from both sides, with tight checking and physical contests characterising the early stages of play.

Lucknow managed to edge ahead slightly, taking a narrow one-goal lead into the first break.

The closely contested battle continued in the second term as the teams traded goals in a highly consistent display.

However, a late surge from Boisdale Briagolong swung the momentum, allowing the Bombers to head into the half-time break with a crucial one-goal lead.

The contest became increasingly physical in the third quarter as rain began to set in, creating handling difficulties on the damp court.

Boisdale Briagolong adapted well to the tough conditions, asserting their authority in the mid-court and pushing their advantage out to a four-goal lead by three-quarter time.

Although the rain cleared for the final term, Lucknow’s desperate efforts to mount a comeback and regain control of the match fell short.

The Bombers maintained their composure under pressure, holding their four-goal buffer until the final siren to secure the premiership.

Boisdale Briagolong’s Taryn Cunningham was named best on court for her excellent work and defensive positioning in the mid-court throughout the match.

FINAL SCORE: Boisdale Briagolong 42 d Lucknow 38