Bullants edge out Canterbury in a nail-biter

Westbourne Grammarians secured a resounding victory over the West Brunswick Magpies, triumphing 10.20 (80) to 0.2 (2).

From the first bounce, Westbourne asserted their control, showcasing clean ball movement and relentless pressure. Their forward line proved unstoppable, capitalising on opportunities to build a commanding lead early. By halftime, the Grammarians had already established a significant margin, leaving the Magpies struggling to gain any momentum.

West Brunswick’s defensive efforts were gallant, but they were overwhelmed by the sustained offensive onslaught of Westbourne. Despite moments of resilience, the Magpies managed only two behinds for the entire match, a testament to the Grammarians’ dominance across the field.

Westbourne’s midfield was pivotal, dictating the tempo and driving the ball into their attacking 50 repeatedly. Their sharpness in front of goal, paired with a disciplined defensive structure, ensured a complete team performance. Grace Choate and Kensley Ward were the power houses up forward slotting 3 majors each, whilst Gabrielle Pejovic was named best afield for the Grammarians. Meanwhile, Cait Mac Ardle led from the front for the Magpies.

This emphatic win solidifies Westbourne’s position as a strong contender in the division, while West Brunswick will look to bounce back with a winnable opportunity against Fitzroy next week. The Grammarians’ clinical display serves as a statement to the rest of the competition.

Unfortunately, the fixtured match between Monash Blues and Oakleigh was decided by forfeit with Monash taking home a much-needed 4 points. Looking further afield, next week Monash take on Port Melbourne Chargers and Oakleigh will travel to play the Bullants at W.R.Ruthven Reserve.

Doncaster Reserve played host to Old Yarra Cobras’ 58-point demolition of Fitzroy. The Cobras kept the Roys to a single behind for the entire match.

Old Yarra’s midfield set the tone early, controlling the tempo and supplying consistent forward entries. While their accuracy in front of goal wavered at times, their relentless attack kept Fitzroy’s defence under siege. The Cobras’ backline was impenetrable, denying Fitzroy any meaningful scoring opportunities and holding them to a solitary behind for the match.

Old Yarra’s best players stood out, with Bree Pascoe and Morgan Kellett-Jackson leading by example through their work rate and precision. Fulori Smith and Brittany Ferguson were dynamic, contributing to the Cobras’ scoring opportunities and locking the ball inside the forward 50. Shayla Cleverly and Emma Elliott were equally instrumental, ensuring the Cobras’ defensive efforts remained rock solid.

This emphatic win solidifies Cobras’ position as a top contender in the competition, while Fitzroy will regroup as they set their eyes on the Magpies at Ramsden Street Oval next week.

St Kevin’s secured a hard-fought 22-point victory over Port Melbourne Chargers in Round 10 of the VAFA Division 4 Women’s competition. The Saints prevailed 3.9 (27) to the Chargers’ 0.5 (5), demonstrating their defensive resilience and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

From the outset, St Kevin’s applied pressure, with their midfield controlling the tempo and their forwards creating multiple scoring chances. Despite some inaccuracy in front of goal, the Saints managed to build a lead that they maintained throughout the match.

Port Melbourne Chargers fought valiantly, with their defence working tirelessly to repel St Kevin’s attacks. However, they struggled to convert their own forward entries into goals, managing only five behinds for the game.

St Kevin’s standout performers included Sofia Zielonka, Sasha Girski, Gabriela Happell, Birgette Snell and Emily Wallace who were instrumental in both offensive drives and defensive stands.

This victory marks an important win for St Kevin’s as they continue to build momentum in the season. The Chargers will play Monash Blues next week in a crunch clash as they seek to keep their season alive.

Our final fixture on Saturday afternoon was well worth the wait! Preston Bullants edged out Canterbury by 1 point in a see-sawing clash at Ruthven Reserve. 

From the outset, both teams showcased determination, with Canterbury capitalizing on their opportunities to register three goals. In contrast, the Bullants dominated possession and forward entries but struggled with accuracy, recording 14 behinds. Despite this, their relentless pressure kept them within striking distance.

The final quarter was a tense affair. Preston’s persistent efforts paid off as they managed to bridge the gap, eventually taking the lead by a single point. Canterbury fought valiantly to reclaim the advantage, but the Bullants’ defence held firm, ensuring the narrowest of victories.

This win is a significant morale booster for Preston, highlighting their resilience and tenacity. For Canterbury, the match serves as a reminder of the fine margins in football and the importance of capitalizing on every opportunity. Both teams will undoubtedly take valuable lessons from this closely contested game as they prepare for the challenges ahead in the season.