Thanks to an impressive opening term, Hazel Glen 1 have started the 2023 year with a brilliant seven goal victory over Bundoora 5 at RMIT University.
It was a strong shooting performance from Hazel Glen with Haylie Baker (14 goals), Nicole Psaila (nine) and Chloe Head (six) all contributing to the 29-22 triumph, the side’s second win in the Section 3 competition.
The return of Michelle Sanders was crucial for Hazel Glen, with partner in crime Narelle Draper also helping the side gain an advantage throughout the match with some big intercepts.
The teamwork between Bundoora shooters Tanae Creek (16 majors) and Naomee Hoeboer (six), as well as the solid work of wing defence Teresa Cassar, put a stop towards Hazel Glen’s flow at times throughout the match, particularly in the second and third quarters.
Hazel Glen were able to produce a strong opening term, quickly creating a seven-goal lead at the first break, with Baker and Psalia sharing the load for their side’s 11 majors.
Bundoora then came out all guns blazing in the second term, as they looked to challenge their opponent’s convincing quarter time lead. The Bulls went on a 4-0 run with Creek playing a key role in reducing the deficit.
Bulls goalkeeper Meagan Hill added towards Bundoora’s charge with some intercepts, further helping the team’s momentum.
However, some late scoring from Hazel Glen ensured they still held a six-goal advantage at half time.
It was a hotly contested third term with both sides going goal for goal throughout most of the quarter, with five majors from either side still giving Hazel Glen their half time advantage heading into the last term.
Bundoora brought the margin back to three in the final quarter, with Creek and Hoeboer again finding the net on multiple occasions.
But Hazel Glen found their groove again quickly and pulled away in the closing minutes to reach out to an unassailable lead. An intercept from Sanders sealed the win for Hazel Glen in the last moments of the game.
