By JARROD POTTER
Hoping to soar higher in her beloved gridiron, a rare state-level experience has only pushed Larnie Gubatanga to work harder.
Flying into the Victorian Eagles squad, Gubatanga, 23, from Narre Warren North, was the sole Berwick Diamond to make the state squad and made her inclusion on the big stage count.
Taking to the field in the inaugural state clash between Victoria and the ACT Monarchs and switching from running-back to slot receiver, Gubatanga took to the new position with gusto as she toiled in the less familiar role to push the Victorians to a 38-24 triumph.
The Victorians had to come from behind after trailing the Monarchs 18-24 in the second quarter but the superior legs of the visitors came to the fore to set up the 16-point victory.
“It was so interesting, as soon as we arrived on the field, had to be there 4.30.
“There was a rugby game before us and the girls were sitting and watching and were so excited,” Gubatanga said.
“We were wearing all our merchandise and it just felt all official and real – was really great.”
Gubatanga believes the Victorian vigour showed the country that the southern state is more than capable of matching it with anyone in coming national championships – whether by foot or in the air.
“How we played on the day we showed, not just NSW and ACT, but the rest of the leagues that we can not only run the ball, but pass it too and we’re a well-rounded team,” Gubatanga said.
“The first half was pretty even, I think we were tied, but the second half we were just able to punch in the win.
“Our defence held on, making sure their offence wasn’t moving anywhere, and our offence was moving the ball so well.
Gubatanga wasn’t just playing in a different side to usual, but also different positions as she lined up as a punt-returner on occasion, setting up a touchdown with a gutsy return through the Monarch’s defence.
“I had a good return. I caught the ball which was the achievement as I don’t really catch the ball but I had a great return that set up a quick TD,” Gubatanga said.
One run-around in the Victorian colours isn’t enough for the shining Diamond though as she hopes an even better Gridiron Victoria women’s season in 2017 pushes her case for another Eagles inclusion.
“It definitely makes me want to improve my own game,” Gubatanga said.
“Training with the state players and coaches makes me realise what I need to work on and makes me want to do better this season and try again next year.”
Berwick Diamonds are on the lookout for new recruits ahead of next year’s season.
For more information on joining the local women’s gridiron team ahead of the 2017 Gridiron Victoria season, contact the club at http://berwickminers.com or on Facebook Berwick Miners Diamonds Womens Gridiron page.
