In the highly anticipated Waratah Women’s Final it was old rivals Canberra and Bankstown to square off for the championship.  The Bruins got off to a great start, opening up an early advantage.  Led by guard Sarah Hately who was red hot, Bankstown led at the first break by 10.

Bankstown 28 – Canberra 18

It was important for Canberra to start the second quarter well and they did just that.  Backed by their tough defense, they forced the Bruins into some tough shots and soft turnovers.  Michaela Dalgleish lifted her game and finished with 12 first half points.  The Nationals restricted the Bruins to just 14 second quarter points and turned their early deficit into a two point half time lead.

Canberra 44 – Bankstown 42

The high standard of basketball continued in the second half, with neither side giving an inch.  The Bruins Briana Hennessy stamped herself on the game with her harassing defense earning several key rebounds and causing Canberra turnovers.  At the last break there was still nothing in it, Nationals by one.

Canberra 57 – Bankstown 56

With the title on the line, both teams continued to attack, but the Bruins took over the lead and would never let it go.  The Nationals were very gallant, but the Bruins experience and past heartaches shone through, thoroughly deserving winners of this years championship.

Bankstown 74 – Canberra 67

Defensive Player of the Grand Final:  #6 Bankstown Bruins – Briana Hennessy