Draw in potential finals preview, House claim Kearney Kennedy Cup

Rebecca Carter

The crowd at Gary Smorgan Oval was treated to a potential finals preview, with a last quarter comeback from AJAX that resulted in a thrilling draw against Glen Eira. Held goalless for the first three quarters of the match, AJAX were staring at a 13-point margin at the final break, but it would prove to be the unlikely goal kicking duo of Gabrielle Mendelow and Kate Taylor, who both kicked their first goals of the year, to help AJAX escape with 2 points. Glen Eira were led by a return to form by superstar Maddy Lister, but the Gryphons will be disappointed they were unable to walk away with the win after controlling the first three quarters of the game. The drawn result leaves AJAX and Glen Eira second and third respectively, separated by only percentage.

Hampton Rovers flexed their muscle to overcome a gallant Bulleen Templestowe with a last quarter comeback to keep their unbeaten record intact. Trailing by 10 points at three-quarter time, the Rovers flicked a switch, slotting two last quarter goals whilst keeping Bulleen Templestowe scoreless. Maegen Miller continued her consistent goal-kicking form with two majors, and Maxine Behnke once again proved her importance to the Rovers line up with a best on ground performance. Josephine Pope put through 2 goals of her own for Bulleen Templestowe, moving up into second in the goal kicking leader board.  

Power House not only walked away with a 19-point victory against South Melbourne Districts on the weekend, but also with the Kearney Kennedy Cup for the first time. The cup was established to honour South Melbourne Districts current player and co-coach Alix Kearney and Power House’s first ever women’s captain, Anna Kennedy. The trophy will sit on the Power House mantle piece for the time being thanks to goals from Alana Jayde Murray and Katie Nolan. Grace Curran was also influential for Power House and for South Melbourne, Emma Madgwick put together her best game of the year.

Unfortunately, Preston Bullants were forced to forfeit their match, handing the four points to Oakleigh. Hopefully the Preston girls are back out there this weekend against Glen Eira. Oakleigh will line up against South Melbourne Districts.

Photo: Amanda Lou Photography