Posted on 13 August, 2024
The Yarra Valley Waste Cobra Men have advanced to the VYC Championship Game for the second consecutive season, after defeating the Casey Cavaliers, 69-68, in a spectacular come from behind victory.
The Cobras overcame a 17-point second half deficit in thrilling fashion, riding a stifling fourth quarter defensive performance and fanatical home crowd to claw themselves out a season-ending hole. Trailing since early in the opening period, Kilsyth took their first lead with just over two minutes remaining in the game on a three-point play from Isaac Ghosn. Ghosn then connected with his older brother, Tom, for a pair of finishes at the rim around a Cavalier bucket, giving Kilsyth a three point lead with one minute remaining. The Cavaliers would respond, tying the game from deep, and after empty possessions from both teams, Hamish MacDonald was fouled in transition with just nine seconds remaining.
The Cobras big man drained the first free throw but missed the second, but the Cobras shut down the Cavaliers attempt at a game-winner as time expired, sending the home crowd into a frenzy – and guaranteeing one final game at Kilsyth this season.
MacDonald led Kilsyth with a tough 21-point, 12-rebound double-double; Ben Bara came alive late to finish with 13 points and four assists; Isaiah Harvey chipped in with eight points, five rebounds and three assists; and the Ghosn brothers added seven points apiece in the win.
After finishing with the league’s top regular season record, the Cobras will play Saturday night’s VYC Championship Game at home, taking on the Sandringham Sabres for the title at 7pm.
The Sabres defeated the Cobras in their lone matchup this season back in Round 6, but the Cobras – with the help of the state’s best fans – will look to turn the tables at home with a championship on the line.
Saturday’s final is expected to be a sellout, so get your tickets online today to secure your seat.
