CENTURIONS LAY DOWN THE GAUNTLET
By KEL ROWE
There were 6 matches played out in the VU polytechnic Senior Women’s Division 1 and 2 fixture over the weekend, with several teams making their mark on the competition.
Friday night contenders Werribee Centrals made a big statement, knocking off Division 1 ladder leaders Spotswood.
The visiting side held the score advantage at every change, and withstood a late charge from the Wolves, led by Morganne Gaston and Jacinta Reid. Centurions Saphyre Swanson and Jade De La Rue starred for their side, with the latter hitting the scoreboard for a major in the gritty 5-point win.
Meanwhile, out at Featherbrook Reserve, Caitlin Pretty was back to her goal-kicking best, bagging 5 in Caroline Springs’ 65-point win over Point Cook Centrals. Emmason McCurley and Mary Daw worked hard under pressure for the Sharks, whilst Charlize Sindoni was a stand-out for the Lakers.
The fixture continued Saturday morning, with Yarraville Seddon hosting the Parkside Spurs for a second time — claiming the hard-fought victory by just 7-points.
Taquila Angel was best on ground for the Spurs, but her efforts through the middle weren’t enough to match the intensity of the Eagles on their home ground. Chloe Lazzaro kicked 2 majors for Yarraville Seddon and was well supported by the best-on efforts of teammate Ann-Marie Geary.
In Division 2, Laverton overcame Braybrook by 52-points to secure their second win on the trot. Jennifer Tang and Zarinjay Stowers fought valiantly for the Brookers but were unable to withstand the forward pressure of the visiting Magpies, championed by the efforts of Mirae Holland, Sam Moodie and Kerrie O’Brien.
At Dempster Park, North Sunshine hosted Caroline Springs in a match that saw the visitors claim a 65-point victory.
Lakers veterans Alicia Fowler and Anthea Stathakis had a day out in front of goals, kicking 2 and 3 majors respectively. Ikesha Alexander and Shanaye Benbow were strong under pressure for the Roadrunners.
To complete the fixture, West Footscray hosted ladder-leaders Wyndhamvale, a challenge that both teams were looking to with eager anticipation. The momentum changed hands multiple times across the game, with the Falcons claiming ascendancy in the back half to secure a 2-goal win.
Roosters captain Kathleen Gannon fought hard for her side for four quarters, whilst Chloe Muus was influential for the Falcons, snagging major and earning time in best.