Hawks seal first win, Stars shine in GF replay

Sarah Ward

Old Brighton v Williamstown CYMS

After a disappointing Round 1 showing against Scotch Stars, Old Brighton got their 2019 season underway with a 26-point win over Williamstown CYMS. After a competitive first quarter, the Seagal’s had difficulty converting on the scoreboard. The Tonners entered half time ahead by eight points and kicked four goals to two in the second half to cement the win. The Tonners’ quicker ball movement and pressure around the stoppages was a feature of their game. With 10 behinds, the Tonners will look to capitalise upon scoring opportunities moving into Round 3. In her second game of football, Lane Davies had a break-out match for the Tonners. India Tait, Emma Lomas and Annie Grant showcased their class and skill across the ground. The CY’s applied strong pressure in their defensive 50, however it was not enough to slow down the Tonners. Impressive performances were seen from Amy Roscoe, Peta Glaister and Hannah Elloitt, who also snagged three goals for the Seagals.

Old Haileybury v Old Scotch

Round 2 brought us the much-anticipated Grand Final Replay between Old Haileybury and Old Scotch. After the Hearts unfurled their premiership flag, it was clear the Stars had a point to prove as they went on to win comprehensively by 51-points. The Stars transitioned the ball well from their defensive half to forward half with quick ball movement and entered half time with a 41-point lead. The Stars built on this momentum in the second half which allowed the young side to enter the forward 50, create several scoring opportunities and enable the likes of Anna Hayes (2) and Charlotte Serafini (1) to hit the scoreboard. The goals were shared by nine players from the Stars, proving just how dangerous their forward line is. Mia Cowan and Alexandra Theodosi also had outstanding performances. Despite the disappointing loss, the Hearts will be pleased by the on-field leadership and persistent efforts of Danielle Frawley, Jordan Shanks and Magdalen Dunn

Old Mentonians v Hawthorn AFC

Hawthorn AFC sealed its first win for the season with a gripping seven-point victory over Old Mentonians. The Hawks started strong and kicked two quick goals in the first quarter. The Panthers struggled to hit the scoreboard, entering half time down by 10 points. The Panthers slowed the Hawks down with Madeleine De Amicis supplying plenty of run and carry of the half back flank. Naomi Linossier and Jesse Hamill also displayed strong performances. The Hawks defence was too strong for the Panthers, able to answer all challenges posed. Lauren Cossen had another outstanding day on the field, kicking three goals and leading the Hawks with class, complimented by the fierce efforts of Nicole Fleming. Maddison Keeffe also starred in the ruck for the Hawks. Madi Capsalis, a consistent best on ground performer for the Panthers, sustained an injury just minutes into the first quarter. With the Easter break upon us, the Panthers will cross their fingers she will be back on the track for their Round 3 clash against Beaumaris.

Beaumaris v Ivanhoe AFC

Beaumaris claim their second win for the season as they toppled Ivanhoe by 14 points. The Ivies entered half time with a five-point lead but were unable to retain it in the second half, with the defensive structure and fierce attack of the ball by the Sharks proving too strong. The Sharks gained control in the final quarter with Lauren Haringsma and Stefanie Baxter providing a fearless display of skill, along with Alexandra Gilchrist converting three on the scoreboard. Rosie Burn, 16yo, played a courageous game in the centre for the Sharks. The backline of the Sharks was a clear asset, allowing the side to set up well when moving the ball forward. With a mere one point separating the sides at three quarter time, the Ivies sustained two injuries, slowing down their rotations. Courageous performances came from Tessa Vandergriff, Fiona Tansley and Hannah Slaughter for the Ivies.