Yenda has taken out their third straight Albury Thunder Women's 9s knockout carnival after a 16-0 win over Wagga Kangaroos on Sunday afternoon.
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Heading over with 12 players the side was struck by injury early, but coach Sam Loloadravu said the ladies showed plenty of spirit.
"They made a pact that they were going to play for each other," he said.
The side made a tough start with a narrow 10-8 loss to Yass but was able to find their footing in the competition with a 52-0 win over Darlington Point Coleambally.
They were able to maintain that momentum to come away to defeat Murrumbidgee Two 20-0 before rounding out the first day with a 12-4 win over Riverina Sistas.
The results saw them finish second in Pool B which set up a semi-final clash with hosts Albury and a convincing performance saw them come away with a 20-0 win.
Wagga Kangaroos were able to see off the challenge of Yass in the other semi-final 12-8 to set up a clash with Yenda.
The strong defence Yenda had shown throughout the tournament came to the front again as they were able to take the 16-0 victory.
Loaloadravu played credit to the experienced heads who were able to lead the side around the park.
"We went across with a pretty new squad with only six or seven having played in last year's side," he said.
"The experience of the girls who had been there was crucial.
"Monique Higgins was the captain and lead well and Luci Lugsdin who was vice-captain lead well in the forwards.
"Eliza Baddock was able to use her experience of playing touch football for Australia to make the most of the space and was voted player's player for the final."
The side was also boosted by the return of Loretta Leao-Seve who made the trip down from Brisbane and Takilele Katoa who was cleared from injury for the final day after playing in the Women's NRL grand final.
Meanwhile, the plate final was won by Riverina Sistas who defeated Murrumbidgee One 18-0 and the Bowl final secured by Wodonga Storm against Darlington Point Coleambally who took a 14-0 victory.
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Liam Warren
As someone with an underlying passion about sport it is a privilege to report on the sporting landscape around the MIA
As someone with an underlying passion about sport it is a privilege to report on the sporting landscape around the MIA
