Round 9 of Northpark NFLW pitted finals contenders in head-to-head match-ups that proved to have a huge effect on ladder positions in both divisions.
The Division 1 action commenced on Friday night, where Kew marked its name back down on the winners’ list, defeating La Trobe University 12.13 (85) to 1.4 (10) at La Trobe University Oval. Kew dominated much of the play and produced a performance that ensured it remained a game clear in fifth position. Lucy Herd was fantastic for the Bears, while Natalie Gills kicked five goals in a terrific display. Denae Clow and Tayla Dando were La Trobe’s best.
On Sunday, Bendigo took away the four points in its top-of-the-table clash against the VU Western Spurs, winning 6.6 (42) to 3.4 (22). The Spurs showed they were ready for the fight against the undefeated Thunder, taking a nine-point lead into quarter time. The Thunder’s class however, shone through as they kicked five goals one thereafter to run away with the match. Leah French and Jacinta Louttit were the Thunder’s best players, while Kirralee Myers and Elizabeth Skinner delivered strong performances for the Spurs.
Diamond Creek Women’s backed up its great Round 8 performance with a 13.19 (97) to 2.2 (14) win over Pascoe Vale. Diamond Creek got off to a flying start, kicking eight first-half goals to set up the victory. The win moves the Creekers into second position on the ladder, with an important clash against the third-placed VU Western Spurs ahead of them in Round 10. Natalie Bire and Alexandra Morcom were instrumental once again in the win.
Darebin kept itself in finals contention with a commanding 18.19 (127) to 0.1 (1) win over Deer Park. The fast-starting Falcons took a 42-point lead into the quarter time break and carried the momentum for the rest of the match. Rachel Hibbert and Shannon Egan excelled for the Falcons, while Gabrielle Colvin finished with a game-high four goals. Teresa Cassar and Isabella Seychell tried hard all day for the Lions.
Melbourne University won its fourth match in a row, defeating Whitehorse 11.8 (74) to 6.3 (39). The Colts delivered a fantastic opening quarter, kicking four goals to one as an upset beckoned. The Mugars answered the challenge however, gaining back the lead before half time and playing an excellent second half. Rhiannon Burleigh kicked three important goals for the Mugars, while Sera Catania and Katie Shanahan stood out for the Colts.
In Division 2, Kew kept its finals dream well and truly alive with a tight 3.4 (22) to 1.3 (9) win over La Trobe University. After Rachel Hickey kicked the opening goal of the match for La Trobe, the Bears clicked into action and scored the next three goals to secure a win that keeps them in touch within six points of the top-five. Natassia Williams and Justine Cain were instrumental in getting the Bears over the line, while Stefania Velona and Georga Small were La Trobe’s best.
Laurimar defeated Diamond Creek Women’s 4.7 (31) to 3.1 (19) in an upset that keeps Laurimar in finals contention. Despite being held to just one goal and trailing by nine points at three-quarter time, the Power displayed gallant fighting spirit to produce a remarkable 21-point turnaround in the last quarter. Zoe Mallia was great for the Power and Ellie Koiker’s two goals were pivotal. Jodie Marsh and Linda Thorp were strong performers for the Creekers.
In the match of the round, West Preston-Lakeside defeated Darebin 3.5 (23) to 2.5 (17) to secure a vital four points. With the sides sitting second and third respectively on equal points, a win meant gaining some breathing space in second position. With neither team willing to give an inch, the match was a low-scoring affair that the Roosters came out on top of. Chloe Kalanj was fantastic for the Roosters, while Chloe Oakley was important in defence. Kristin Stensholt was best for the Falcons for the second-consecutive week and Jem Wilson was also great.
In a one-sided affair, Montmorency secured its fifth win with a 16.8 (104) to 1.1 (7) victory over Whitehorse. Dominating much of the play, the Magpies’ performance ensured they remain in fifth position with a match-up against third-placed Darebin looming in Round 10. Madison Bayes was great once again with four goals and Nicole Blythe continued her terrific season for the Magpies. Kate Griffin and Madeline Theofanides stood out for the Colts.
The VU Western Spurs continued their fantastic season with a 7.5 (47) to 2.1 (13) triumph over South Morang. The Spurs’ eighth win of the season saw them maintain top position by virtue of them holding of the best percentage in Division 2. Kerrie Clarke and Brittany Wunhym were excellent for the Spurs, while Cassie Hurst and Alisha Pryde continued their strong seasons for the Lions.
Photo taken by Travellingmaz
