Williamstown’s domination continues while St Mary’s secure first win

Claudia Didonato

Round 6 in Division 2 Women’s brought with it a display of heart and grit with all teams in for some tough, wet weather footy.

Williamstown continued their winning streak coming up against Old Trinity, while St Mary’s brought home their first win for the season in a close game against Therry Penola.

As Old Trinity took on Williamstown at Hudson Oval it was a match up set to test both teams. A low scoring first quarter highlighted the challenge these top sides posed to each other. Williamstown started to run away with the game late in the second quarter as they kept Old Trinity goalless going into halftime. Despite Old Trinity’s best effort to advance the ball downfield in hope of adding to the scoreboard, Williamstown’s ability to control the play combined with their fierce offensive pressure proved too good for Old Trinity.

Old Trinity toiled away despite a fifty-five-point margin going into the last quarter, with Larni Dibben kicking the teams only goal of the game. Kiara Palmar was best on for Williamstown and Sofi-Kristin Georgas kicked 4 majors to help secure the win.

Next door at Ivanhoe Park, Ivanhoe took on Albert Park. In a strong first quarter effort the Falcons left the Ivies scoreless going into quarter time. The 20-point lead was extended to 27 at the main break.

Ivanhoe started to find their rhythm as the game progressed, Molly Uwland showcasing her ability across the ground with impressive run and carry efforts. Tessa Vandergriff, an Ivies veteran and experienced defender, exhibited her versatility by playing forward and kicking the first goal of her footy career.

For everything Ivanhoe threw at the Falcons, the ladies of Albert Park had the answers.

Johannah Griffin continued her stellar start to the season with three goals in a best on ground display. Supported by Hannah Buur in the forward line. Despite three final quarter goals from Ivanhoe it was the Falcons who made the most of opportunities in front of goal and never seemed too troubled. Bronte Wilson and Chloe McDonald stood up for the travelling side when it mattered most.

Across town MCC were in for a big day as they faced off against Parkdale Vultures at Beaumaris Secondary College. Coming into the game as underdogs, MCC put on an impressive first quarter, matching Parkdale with one behind each. The Vultures began to assert their dominance in the second quarter despite the dreary conditions and continued to extend their lead into the second half of the game.

Bella Daddo starred up forward for Parkdale, kicking three goals, while the backline managed to keep MCC goalless for the entire game.

The highlight of the round was St Mary’s Salesian securing their first win of the season against Therry Penola at Ferndale Park. A close first half showcased the ability of each team, neither seemingly able to get the edge on the other. With St Mary’s going into the third quarter three points down, the Saints utilised their ability to skilfully transition the ball from their defensive fifty to their scoring end and performed in front of goal. Anna Vrsecky was an integral part of St Mary’s success, taking strong defensive marks, rucking and kicking a goal. An impressive 40m goal from Gabby Rawlings also helped secure the 20-point victory for St Mary’s.