WAFLW WEEKLY REVIEW | ROUND 9

WAFLW

Round 9 and we were off to Bassendean to play the in form Swans.  

We were excited by the return of the five state players, Abby Barnden, Ebonee Hardie and Makinley Minchin which were part of 9 changes to the side from last week against South Fremantle.  Abbey Westra also came up from Rogers to make her WAFLW debut.  

We came out with intent and a very positive mindset focusing on what we do well and supporting each other.  The opening quarter saw us very competitive and we were unlucky not to capitalise on opportunities early.  However a four minute lapse in concentration allowed Swans 3 quick goals, we responded with one of our own right on the siren to keep the positivity going.  This is the first goal we have kicked in a first quarter for weeks and against a strong breeze to keep us in touch.  At quarter time Swans up 3.4 to1.0.

The second quarter we took control in general play but were unable to hit the score board until Makinley Minchin had an inspired 3 minutes of football to kick 2 goals, her first at WAFLW level. However we allowed Swans to kick one of their own and they took the lead into half time, but we were excited with our endeavour and the way we were playing and were right in the game.  Swans up 4.7 to 3.0.

The third quarter was played in two halves, we controlled the first half and opened the goal scoring against the breeze to get within 7 points, Swans then took control for the second half of the quarter to kick 3 late, pushing them to a handy lead into the break.  Swans up 7.9 to 4.3.

Looking to get ourselves back into contention for the top four, we were keen to continue to be our best version and take the game on. We set ourselves to kick the first goal of the quarter and give ourselves hope. With just one minute on the clock Holly Bilcich kicked her first WAFLW goal to give us the fast start that we were looking for, while we pressed hard, the Swans defence held strong and the comeback wasn’t to be. Swans eventually running out winners 9.9 to 5.4.

While the loss is very disappointing, there were many positives to take out of the game.  We finally gave our forwards more opportunities with 24 inside 50’s.  Our ball use and transition was a lot better and we are seeing constant improvement and confidence coming into our young players every week.  

This week we take on the undefeated ladder leaders Claremont at home at 12pm before the WAFL game, but don’t write us of just yet.  We challenged them heavily early in the season when they had their AFLW girls.  The girls are building nicely, and a big win isn’t far off. 

SD 9.9 63

PT 5.4 34

Best Players

Krystal Carter, Evie Cowcher, Ebony Dowson, Ebony Bilcich, Tanisha Anderson

Goal scorers

Makinley Minchin, Tanisha Anderson 2, Holly Bilcich 1

ROGERS CUP

Week 9 v South Fremantle 

Playing Souths who were third on the ladder was always going to be a tough ask for our girls.  We came out with a “Pump each other up” attitude to the game and the girls seemed to respond well.  The scoreboard agreed, showing us in front at the first two changes.  In the third quarter the weight of forward entries for Souths (12 v our 7) took its toll, and they took a three point advantage moving into the final break.  Our girls played their hearts out in the last only losing by four points.  

As a coach I was very happy with the girls’ positive attitude and strong work rate across all quarters.  It was great to welcome back Tessa Kongras, Ava Cristodero, Charlize Thompson and Ashlee Norwood from league duties, Mia Pedrana from State 16’s and Lucy Kane and Nakia Jilley from injury, Nakia playing her first game for Peel.  We hope now to steady our team for the next few games against ladder leaders Claremont and West Perth. 

SF 2.7 19

PT 2.3 15

Best Players

Alyssa Pearson, Arnya Pickston, Esther Amory, Tessa Kongras, Lucy Kane

Goal scorers

Shareckah Jones, Arnya Pickston