Ivanhoe merciless in win over Therry, while it was Groundhog Day for Albert Park

Claudia Di Donato

Round 7 made for an exciting round of footy, with match ups that challenged all teams and provided a clear look into what each side is building on almost mid-way through the season.

Undefeated Williamstown CYMS took on second-on-the-ladder, Albert Park Falcons, at Fearon Reserve. Having fallen short of the win against Williamstown earlier in the season, Albert Park had an opportunity to re-test themselves against the best, while Williamstown had a chance to remind the league of why they are on top.

Williamstown opened the scoring, kicking one major and three minors, and kept Albert Park scoreless heading into quarter time. Lifting their offensive pressure, Albert Park’s Hannah Bur hit the score board and got the ball rolling for the Falcons in the second. While it was looking promising, Williamstown responded quickly, attacking the footy and capitalising on opportunities in front of goal, and went into half time with a ten-point lead.

The Falcons maintained their strong defensive pressure during the second half, keeping Williamstown at bay. Despite their toughest defence, Williamstown was successful in front of goal on multiple occasions and drew out their lead to 30 points by the final siren. Alessia Acquaro kicked two goals for Williamstown, adding to her tally as the competition’s leading goal kicker. Regardless of the Albert Park’s best efforts, it was Groundhog Day for the Falcons, leaving Williamstown sitting comfortably on top of the ladder.

South of the city, the Parkdale Vultures faced off against Old Trinity at Gerry Green Reserve. Focusing on clean handballs out of packs and to players in space, Parkdale were slick with their skills right from the start. Winning the first clearance, the Vultures set the tone for what was to come. Parkdale managed to keep Old Trinity scoreless until the third quarter in a dominant defensive effort. Sienna Symons starred for the Vultures, kicking three majors, and getting best on.

Despite only scoring one behind for the entire game, Old Trinity didn’t allow Parkdale to run away with the game, also putting forward a strong defensive effort. While Parkdale came into this week as favourites, Old Trinity were competitive despite the 39-point loss.

Over at Beaumaris Secondary College, MCC FC faced off against St Mary’s Salesian. Coming off the back of their first win against Therry Penola, St Mary’s was determined to continue building on the success of the week prior. A strong first half effort from both sides highlighted the intensity and quality of footy both teams can produce.

Returning to the field after the main break with a 20-point lead, MCC continued to apply superior offensive and defensive pressure, making St Mary’s attempt at a second victory difficult. While St Mary’s were not adding to the scoreboard at the same rate as MCC, they did not concede points easily.

Anna-Lisa Harris kicked five goals for MCC, while Ellen Pratt kicked two to contribute to MCC’s victory. Despite the strongest effort from St Mary’s, they were unsuccessful in securing their second win. MCC took home the four points, after a convincing 51-point victory.

The match of the round was Ivanhoe taking on Therry Penola at Ivanhoe Park. The Ivies put on a clinic, bringing home the biggest win of season thus far. While the 120-point victory was the result of effort from all 25 players, 11 separate goal kickers from Ivanhoe contributed to the colossal win.

Abbey Marcuccio showcased her versatility, initially playing full back but moving into the forward line and kicking three goals, while Georgia Pirdis impressed with her strong marking ability and accuracy in front of goal.

Regardless of Therry Penola only having 14 players take to the field, there was a great display of camaraderie as all players gave their best effort. Unable to impact the play which was heavily controlled by Ivanhoe, there was courage and resilience shown by Therry Penola, working hard as a team until the final siren.