Bulldogs’ 43-31 success came on the back of a strong first half of shooting, while for Panthers A they couldn’t get any early rhythm.

Panthers coach Di Coombes said her team should hold their heads high after a strong season of netball.

“We knew it was going to be a tough game. They held in there but that was just unlucky. We can’t afford to give that sort of start to a team like Bulldogs in the grand final and expect to come back from it,” she said.

“We tried hard but it just didn’t come off on the day.

“We had a good year but the end result was disappointing.

“I though Claire Woolmington played well. Sarah Walsh, when she came on, played very well. They put in a great effort.

“We’ve just got to look forward to next year.”