Old Geelong and Beaumaris impress as CY’s continue dominance

With only three rounds to go,Round 13 of Premier B Women’s offered a rich tapestry of footy, with teams hustling to gain some critical ladder positions as the season edges closer to the finals. From big victories to hard-fought battles, the weekend’s fixtures had it all.

Old Geelong delivered a strong performance against St Bedes/Mentone Tigers with a decisive 9.5 (59) – 2.7 (19) victory. The home side set the tone early, with their midfield exerting dominance from the first bounce and providing plenty of deep entries.

Old Geelong’s forwards capitalised on their midfield’s dominance, with Leanora Aruci proving unstoppable inside 50. Aruci’s strong marking and accurate kicking were pivotal, finishing the match with four goals. Brooke McKay and Kathleen Dunn also displayed dominance for Old Geelong throughout the match, earning themselves best on ground.

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers struggled to match Old Geelong’s intensity and execution. Georgia Ricardo, Nina Coghill, and Madeleine Tilley put in a big shift on the field, and the team showed moments of brilliance. However, despite some impressive efforts in the midfield, the Tigers were unable to generate sufficient forward momentum. Their defence, under relentless pressure, couldn’t hold back the tide of Old Geelong’s attacks.

In a gritty contest, Fitzroy emerged victorious over Westbourne Grammarians, securing a 3.6 (24) – 1.3 (9) win that highlighted their defensive prowess and midfield resilience. The game was a hard-fought battle, with both teams displaying fierce determination.

Fitzroy’s defence across the field was the cornerstone of their victory, with Georgina Bennett, Simone Mooney, and Nessa Cooney Hunt being particularly strong. The team’s ability to intercept and turn defence into attack was crucial, consistently blocking Westbourne’s forward momentum. The midfield, though heavily contested, managed to gain the upper hand, providing enough supply to their forwards, with Esther Boles kicking two and Georgia Bennett kicking one.

Westbourne Grammarians showed plenty of fight, particularly in the midfield, who were relentless for the entirety of the match. Kiara Henry, Jade Desira, and Manaia Huta were standouts for the match. However, their inability to convert forward entries into goals proved costly. Despite their efforts, they found Fitzroy’s defence impenetrable, with Kiara Henry being the only one to manage to convert a goal for her team.

Williamstown CYMS continued their unbeaten run with a comprehensive 3.10 (28) – 0.1 (1) victory over Aquinas OC. The ladder leaders showcased their defensive might, restricting Aquinas to just a solitary point.

The CYMS’ defensive line was impenetrable, effectively shutting down any offensive attempts by Aquinas. The midfield’s tireless efforts and sharp ball use set the tempo for Williamstown, allowing their forwards to capitalise on opportunities.

Sofi Georgas and Alessia Acquaro were again instrumental, converting opportunities into goals and maintaining their impressive form. The teamwork and discipline displayed by Williamstown highlighted why they are the team to beat this season.

Aquinas OC found it challenging to break through Williamstown’s staunch defence. Despite honourable efforts from Millie Edwards, Hannah Virgona, and Ava Campbell, the team struggled to make an impact on the scoreboard. Nevertheless, Aquinas displayed great moments of defence and keeping the undefeated side to three goals is commendable.

Beaumaris put on a clinic against Old Xaverians, cruising to a dominant 10.9 (69) – 1.1 (7) victory. The home side’s attacking prowess was on full display, with their forwards enjoying a day out. Ella Southgate’s day out was particularly enjoyable, kicking a bag of four goals.

Anna Sutcliffe, Zoe Barbakos, and Ashley van Rooyen were the stars for Beaumaris, leading the charge with their strong repeated efforts and tenacity. Supported by a midfield that provided a constant stream of quality ball, the forward line was able to wreak havoc inside 50.

Old Xaverians were unable to stem the tide, with their defence under siege from the relentless Beaumaris attack. Despite the dominant efforts of Katharine Mullins, Vanessa Murphy, and Hannah Ryan, the visitors struggled to contain the home side’s forward onslaught, with Chiara Chiarelli being the lone goal scorer for her side. Old Xav’s defensive pressure, however, was noticeable throughout the match, forcing Beaumaris to kick 9 behinds.

As the season heads towards the finish line, the competition is heating up. Williamstown CYMS remain the benchmark, their unbeaten run a testament to their consistency and strength across the board. Fitzroy’s resilience and defensive strength position them well for the finals, while Old Geelong’s comprehensive victory over St Bedes/Mentone Tigers highlights their potential to be a major contender for the flag.

Beaumaris’ dominant performance underscores their attacking capabilities, making them a team to watch in the run-up to the finals. Meanwhile, St Bedes/Mentone Tigers, Westbourne Grammarians, Aquinas OC, and Old Xaverians will need to aim for strong finishes to the season.

Round 13 provided a snapshot of the quality and competitiveness that define the VAFA Women’s Prem B competition. As teams jostle for finals positions, every match becomes crucial, promising more thrilling encounters and standout performances in the weeks to come.

Round 14 of VAFA Women’s Prem B promises exciting matchups. St Bedes/Mentone Tigers face Beaumaris in a crucial clash for ladder positioning. Aquinas OC hosts Old Geelong, looking to rebound from recent losses, while Old Geelong aims to maintain their finals push. Williamstown CYMS take on a strong Fitzroy side in the round’s marquee matchup. Finally, Westbourne Grammarians battle Old Xaverians, with both teams eager for a strong finish to the season.