Old Geelong edges Fitzroy by one point in nail-biter

Round 11 of the Premier B Women’s competition featured strong performances in a number of closely contested games. As the season progresses, the fight for finals positions intensifies, making every game important from here on out. This round continued to shape the season, with each match playing a significant role in the standings.

Beaumaris bounced back in style with a 58-14 victory over Aquinas OC. From the first bounce, Beaumaris showed their intent, playing with a level of intensity and precision that Aquinas struggled to match.

The Beaumaris forward line was particularly compelling, with their ability to create goalscoring opportunities inside their offensive 50. Ella Southgate finished the game with 3 goals and a spot in the best three, alongside Samantha Baisas and Ruby Raymondset. Beaumaris’ midfield controlled the centre of the ground, winning clearances and providing quality supply to the forwards.

Aquinas OC, despite the loss, showed periods of resilience. Their defence worked tirelessly to halt Beaumaris’ relentless momentum. However, Aquinas found it difficult to transition the ball effectively into their forward line, often being caught on the counterattack. Riley Christgoergl, Tricia Cowan, and Dianna Haines were standout players for the day.

This victory for Beaumaris is a significant boost and their ability to play cohesive and attacking football was on full display. They will look to carry this form forward for the remainder of the season.

In the most thrilling match of the round between second and third, Old Geelong edged out Fitzroy by a single point for a final scoreline of 19-18 in a nail-biting contest that went down to the wire. The game was a testament to the competitiveness of the league, with both teams leaving everything on the field.

Old Geelong’s victory was built on their defensive strength and ability to withstand Fitzroy’s pressure. Their defensive unit was outstanding, consistently thwarting Fitzroy’s forward entries and providing crucial rebound opportunities.

Amy Halaby, Genevieve Ednie, and Kathleen Dunn were instrumental for Old Geelong, winning key possessions and driving their teams forward.

Despite going down by a point, Fitzroy showed why they are one of the top teams this season and shouldn’t be underestimated come finals time. Their midfield was industrious, and their forward line created several scoring opportunities, but moments of inaccuracy in front of goal proved costly. Sarah Lynas, Olivia Brilliant, and Lauren Atkinson were amongst the best for Fitzroy.

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers secured a much-needed victory, defeating Westbourne Grammarians, with the final score reading 37-20 in a solid team performance. Coming off a tough loss, they were determined to get back on track, and their intensity was evident from the start.

Chloe Saultry, Georgia Ricardo, and Olivia Watkins were critical throughout the game, providing drive and creativity that set up numerous scoring opportunities for the Tigers. Their ability to win clearances and use the ball effectively was a highlight.

Westbourne Grammarians showed fight and determination, particularly through the efforts of Joudy Joud, Sienna Burns Bradley, and Morganne Gaston. Their midfield worked hard to compete with St Bedes, but the inability to convert some opportunities at goal proved costly.

Williamstown CYMS continued their unbeaten streak with a dominant 72-14 victory over Old Xaverians, further cementing their status as the team to beat this season. Williamstown’s all-around strength was on full display, with their clinical forward line, solid defence, and dynamic midfield all contributing to the comprehensive win.

Loren Mills and Megan Hazel Smart were standouts up forward, bagging multiple goals and showcasing their ability to find space and finish accurately. The midfield controlled the game, winning clearances and setting up scoring opportunities with ease.

Old Xaverians struggled to match Williamstown’s intensity and execution. Amy Benifer, Alessandra Libertone, and Hannah Ryan were standout players for Old Xaverians, who worked tirelessly to shut down Williamstown’s offensive pressure, but the gap remained too wide.

Williamstown’s offence was impenetrable, allowing Old Xaverians very few scoring opportunities. Jess Court, Anais Lipski, and Paras Paton were key performers and contributors to Williamstown’s success.

As the season progresses, the competition is reaching a fever pitch. Williamstown CYMS remain the clear frontrunner with their undefeated record, displaying a level of consistency and dominance that makes them the team to beat.

Fitzroy, despite their narrow loss, remains a strong contender, and their performance against Old Geelong shows they have the resilience and skill to bounce back. Old Geelong’s nail-biting win keeps them comfortably in finals contention, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure.

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers and Beaumaris both secured important victories, boosting their chances of climbing the ladder and securing finals positions. Aquinas OC and Old Xaverians will need to regroup and address their areas of improvement as they look to finish the season on a high note.