La Trobe stun Old Carey to book grand final spot

La Trobe University have pulled off an incredible upset to progress to the 2025 Women’s Division 2 Grand Final. Minor premiers Old Carey headed into the game as red-hot favourites but were no match for a brave La Trobe outfit. The Panthers will be devastated with the result, after such a dominant and impressive season sees them leave 2025 with no grand final appearance. Full credit to the Trobers who took it to Old Carey from the opening bounce.

The first two quarters were nightmares for Old Carey, as they failed to record a score, unable to find avenues to goal against a dominant La Trobe defence. They were lucky to head into the halftime break only 8 points down, with La Trobe unable to kick away.

The third quarter was where La Trobe did most of their damage, kicking 3 goals to 1, taking their chances efficiently. Teresa D’angelo was instrumental for the away side, kicking two goals and giving her all on a day that was so important for the club.

La Trobe’s grit and determination have been a feature of their 2025 campaign, competing fiercely in every match regardless of the opposition. They’ve consistently shown resilience in tight contests, never allowing pressure or expectation to deter them. That fighting spirit shone through once again in this preliminary final, proving why they thoroughly deserve their grand final berth.

Although Old Carey bow out of the competition, they’ve set a great standard all season and have been the team to beat for so long. La Trobe will face a red-hot Parkside team in the big dance next week. Samantha Greene’s side are well aware of the standard needed to topple the Devils, with an A-Grade performance a minimum to taste premiership success.

La Trobe University and Parkside have locked horns three times this season, with a 2-1 record favouring the Devils. This may be an indication of dominance in recent history, however, will not tell the full story come Grand Final day with La Trobe Uni up and about after two dominant performances to grind their way into a chance at the big dance.

Midday Sunday at Coburg City Oval is the time and place to be to watch history unfold as we crown the 2025 Premiers of the Division 2 Women’s competition.