Royals Saints in epic extra time grand final victory

Royals Saints 1 have produced one of the most remarkable grand final victories in recent history, winning a double extra time thriller over Magpies 1 to claim the Albany Netball Association A1 premiership this afternoon.

In control for large parts of the match, Royals Saints coughed up their early lead as Magpies hit the front and held a two-goal margin in the dying stages of the fourth term.

A goal to Ashleigh Smith and then Nardia Humphries, virtually as the full time whistle blew, helped Royals Saints level scores and force extra time.

With seven minutes each way to decider a winner, Royals Saints took the advantage before Magpies netted five of the last six goals to leave things level at 42 apiece as the extra time period expired.

The game continued on with now either side needing to get two goals in front to win and Royals Saints, after twice appearing to have blown their chance at victory, conjuring something special.

Nardia Humphries put them ahead and then the brilliant teenager scored again to guide her side to a epic grand final win, 44-42.

It was a remarkable finish to the season but also an amazing performance from Nardia Humphries who won the Lucille Holt perpetual trophy for the fairest and best player in the grand final after her match-winning 36 goals, nine of which came in extra time.

Lisa Amess also shone in defence for the winners while Claire Roocke and Kelly Judd were among Magpies’ best players.

See Tuesday’s Advertiser for full reports and pictures.