Match Reviews | No upsets played out in the top division as the first week of Gippsland League netball finals got underway.

Drouin defeated Bairnsdale 51-29 in Saturday’s qualifying final, earning a second chance and the opportunity to secure a grand final berth when it faces minor premier Moe this Saturday.

The result continued a season dominated by the Hawks and Lions, who combined to win 33 of a possible 36 matches during the home-and-away season.

Drouin centre Stacie Gardiner, goalkeeper Ebony Mumford and goal shooter Mwai Kumwenda Mbwana, all instrumental in the Hawks’ successful season, were again named among their best.

League-leading goal shooter Kumwenda Mbwana scored 33 goals, while Charlize Traumanis added 17.

Bairnsdale’s Sally Deller was named the Redlegs’ best for her defensive efforts, with centre Paris Dunkley and wing defence Ruby Dunkley also impressing.

Bairnsdale will now face Leongatha in an elimination first semi-final after the Parrots ended Wonthaggi’s season with a 54-37 victory on Sunday.

Leongatha will host the first semi-final on Sunday, while Moe and Drouin meet in Saturday’s second semi-final at Morwell Recreation Reserve, with the winner progressing directly to the grand final.

Drouin and Traralgon also progressed through their respective B Grade qualifying and elimination finals at the weekend.

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