Tigers triumph, Grammarians dominate, and Williamstown extend unbeaten run

Round 15 of Premier B Women’s delivered another great weekend of footy, as teams vied for percentages with finals just around the corner. St Bedes/Mentone Tigers secured a significant win over Fitzroy, Westbourne Grammarians dominated Aquinas OC, Old Geelong dismantled Old Xaverians, and Williamstown CYMS continued their undefeated streak against Beaumaris.

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers overcame a determined Fitzroy side to clinch a 4.6 (30) – 2.6 (18) victory in a tightly contested match. The Tigers demonstrated their resilience and tactical nous, outlasting Fitzroy in a game that saw both sides showcase their defensive strengths.

Olivia Steinfort, Belinda Ousley, and Erin Carroll were pivotal for the Tigers, with their high work rate and ball distribution setting up scoring opportunities. Skipper Madeline Pearson was effective up in front of the sticks, using her strong marking and accurate kicking to keep the scoreboard ticking over.

Fitzroy, despite the loss, put in a brilliant effort. The midfield battled hard, winning plenty of the ball and applying pressure. Simone Mooney, Nessa Cooney Hunt, and Tess Young were awarded best on ground. However, their forwards found it difficult to penetrate the well-organised Tigers’ defence.

This win solidifies the Tigers’ position in the top four and highlights their ability to perform under pressure as they head into the finals.

Westbourne Grammarians delivered a dominant performance to defeat Aquinas OC 4.12 (36) – 1.0 (6), showcasing their strength and depth across the field. From the opening bounce, the Grammarians controlled the game, their midfield and forward line working in perfect harmony.

Kiara Henry, Odeth Lopez, and Morganne Gaston were outstanding, winning clearances and driving the ball forward with purpose. Hannah McMahon was a standout in the forward line, her strong marking and goal sense proving too much for the Aquinas’ defence to handle.

Aquinas OC struggled to match Westbourne’s intensity and skill. However, their defence put pressure on the Grammarians, forcing them to kick 12 behinds. Despite the strong efforts of Dianna Haines, Riley Christgoergl, and Tricia Cowan, who tried valiantly to turn the tide, the team was unable to sustain the pressure.

Old Geelong produced a clinical display to dismantle Old Xaverians 14.11 (95) – 3.3 (12), underlining their status as one of the competition’s powerhouses. From the outset, Old Geelong were relentless, their forwards and midfielders working seamlessly to dominate the contest.

Sophia McCarthy, Sophia Rothfield, and Jessie Gleeson were instrumental in their team’s success. Up forward, Sophia McCarthy had a day out, finishing with a bag of six goals and tormenting the Xaverians’ defence with her strong marking and accurate kicking.

Old Xaverians struggled to contain the onslaught. Despite their best efforts in defence, they were overwhelmed by Old Geelong’s attacking prowess. The midfield was also outgunned, unable to match the pace and intensity of their opponents.

This resounding victory reinforces Old Geelong’s credentials as a top contender, providing them with a significant confidence boost heading into the final rounds of the season.

Williamstown CYMS extended their unbeaten run with a 3.3 (21) – 0.7 (7) victory over Beaumaris in a hard-fought encounter. The league’s leader showcased their defensive solidity and clinical finishing, grinding out a win in challenging conditions.

The defensive line was solid, demonstrating great intercept marks and leadership. The midfield controlled the tempo and ensured that Williamstown maintained possession and territory. Camryn Tyrrell, Kiara Palmar, and Sofi Georgas continued their impressive form, finding space and providing their team with ample chances.

Beaumaris put up a good fight against the undefeated side, with Zoe Barbakos, Caley Ryan, and Alana Hilford working tirelessly to keep their side in the contest. However, they found it difficult to break through Williamstown’s disciplined defensive structure and capitalise on their opportunities, kicking seven behinds.

This win maintains Williamstown CYMS’ perfect record and reinforces their position at the top of the ladder as the team to beat this season.

As Round 15 wraps up, the stage is set for an exciting run to the finals. Williamstown CYMS continue to lead the competition, their unbeaten record a testament to their consistency and quality. St Bedes/Mentone Tigers’ victory over Fitzroy solidifies their place in the top four, showcasing their resilience and tactical acumen.

Old Geelong’s demolition of Old Xaverians highlights their attacking prowess and depth, marking them as a serious final’s contender. Westbourne Grammarians’ dominant performance keeps them in the finals race, demonstrating their potential to cause upsets.

Fitzroy, despite their loss, remain competitive and will be looking to bounce back next week. Aquinas OC, Beaumaris, and Old Xaverians face a tough challenge ahead, needing to regroup and find form to finish the season on a positive note.

With only one round left before the finals, the next round carries significant weight. Teams will need to bring their best to secure their positions and build momentum heading into the crucial end-of-season matches.