Draw highlights tight-knit Premier B Women’s

Josh Nevett

What a round of footy this was! Fresh off the break, all teams were out to make a statement on what has been a very even competition thus far, and it was telling in the results.

Yarra Old Grammarians pulled off one of the upsets of the season in their return to Doncaster Reserve, stealing a 2-point win over Beaumaris at the death. Maddison Stone was the hero for the Bushrangers, bagging three goals for the hosts. Zoe Barbakos did her best to drag the Sharks over the line at the other end, kicking three herself, but ultimately this wasn’t enough.

Monash Blues jumped up to 6th position, reigniting hopes of a finals charge, as they defeated Fitzroy-ACU by 5 points at Frearson Oval. This was another case of the underdog outlasting their opponent, with Monash kicking the only two goals of a frenetic final quarter. Sarah-Jade Rose and Teresa Heath were central to the victory.

Despite a strong second quarter, Collegians were outclassed by a Melbourne University side that continues to demonstrate their premiership credentials. The final margin was 23 points, but if not for wayward kicking in front of goal this might have been greater. Asha Price kicked another three goals as she continues to dominate the scorer’s table, and Alanna Dalley was best afield for the Mugars.

Finally, in the match of the round, Old Camberwell and Old Geelong shared the points in the first draw of the season. The Wellers threatened to upset a fancied OG’s side throughout the match but were not able to kick clear for the four points. Georgia Opray kicked two and was dominant for the hosts, and Alison Youlten was fantastic for Old Geelong.

It doesn’t get much better than that when it comes to a competitive round of VAFA fixtures, but we can only hope there is more to come as the competition reaches its home and away climax. Melbourne Uni is sitting pretty six points clear on top, but every position below 2nd on the table is in the balance.