Round 4 supplied a change in the pattern of thrilling nail biters to start season 2021. There were high scores and blowouts as Old Geelong and Collegians showcased their quality and endurance in the unusually warm conditions.
Down at Como Park, a venue that would have specifically benefited from the May sunshine, Old Geelong led all day against a disappointing Wellers side. The home side piled on eight goals to one in a devastating display that cemented their spot at the top of the table at this early point in the season. Stephanie Defina continued her impressive season for the losing team and Clare Wilson was also outstanding.
Beaumaris are hot on the heels of the ladder leaders after downing Monash Blues by 17 points. Despite trialling at the final change, the Sharks ran over the top of Monash by kicking four goals in the final term. Taylah Tysoe and Samantha Baisas were outstanding for Beaumaris, whilst Ella Stephenson kicked three for Monash in a high scoring affair.
Collegians stormed to their first win of the season at Doncaster Reserve, thumping Yarra Old Grammarians by 55 points. Consigning the Bushrangers to the bottom of the ladder, Collegians kicked a season high 61 points and restricted Yarra to just the one scoring shot. Emma Elliott can hold her head high as she was best for the losing side.
Completing the round on Sunday, Melbourne University got the better of Fitzroy-ACU by 39 points. They dominated the match from start to finish with three unanswered goals in the first term and cemented themselves in the top grouping on the ladder. Eve Sheehan put in a season-best performance, kicking three goals and earning BOG honours and the Round 4 Anytime Fitness Rising Star nomination. Captain Steph Comelli was terrific across half-back while Julia Balassopoulos and Lucy Kerr were standouts for the Roys.
Now, after four rounds, the ladder is starting to take shape. Old Geelong, Melbourne University and Beaumaris are the teams to beat at this point, and Collegians, Monash and Yarra have plenty to work do with just the one win apiece.