Caulfield and Westbourne Shine as Fitzroy, St Kevin’s claim tight victories

Round 6 of the William Buck Premier Women’s competition delivered a mix of dominant performances, breakthrough wins and gripping contests across the division. Caulfield Grammarians continued their run in emphatic style, Westbourne secured their historic first Premier Women’s victory, while Fitzroy and St Kevin’s prevailed in two fiercely contested matches.

Caulfield Grammarians produced one of their most complete performances of the season, defeating Old Brighton 13.10.88 to 0.1.1. Sarah Kenny and Serena Kuo each kicked three goals, while Rosie Finster, Jacinta Baxter and Brooke Randall were standouts in a commanding display.

Caulfield Grammarians coach Danielle Di Stefano praised the cohesion and spread of contributors, noting it was “some of the best connection between lines we’ve had all year” and highlighting the value of multiple goal kickers. She also commended Old Brighton’s pressure, suggesting it forced her side to step up.

Old Brighton coach Pat Malone remained upbeat despite the margin, emphasising the long‑term growth of his young group. He described the opposition as “such a balanced and polished team across every line”and identified improved pressing and blocking of Caulfield’s release as key learnings. Molly Burke impressed on debut, while Eloise McCrae continued her excellent form.

Westbourne Grammarians celebrated a landmark moment, securing their first ever William Buck Premier Women’s victory through a gritty four‑quarter performance against Old Geelong 4.3.27 to 2.8.20. Temeika Cathery was outstanding with three goals, supported by strong games from Olivia Cavka and Sarah Dickie.

Westbourne coach Chris Grant described it as “a true four-quarter performance” and the result of the group’s hard work since being elevated to William Buck Premier Women’s level just weeks before Round 1. He praised the evenness of the performance and the leadership of Cavka, Paige and Dickie, while noting Dani Marshall produced her best game since returning after giving birth to twins last year.

Old Geelong coach Jack Crameri credited Westbourne’s toughness and honesty, acknowledging his side’s improved defensive performance but lamenting missed opportunities inside 50. Juliet Grant and Kasey Bindon were amongst the best for the OG’s and Genevieve Ednie was the sole goalkicker on the day.

St Kevin’s claimed a hard‑fought win against West Brunswick 4.2.26 to 3.3.21. After a slow start, kicking just one point in the first half St Kevin’s lifted their pressure and ball movement after the main break. Sarah Cameron led the way with two goals, supported by strong contributions from Mia Giannopoulos and Georgia Harris.

Coach Jaime Pi was pleased with the response, noting it was “a strong second half after a disappointing first half” and emphasised the need to continue improving defensively across all lines.

West Brunswick coach Ryan Wandel felt the game slipped away despite three quarters of strong pressure and handball connection. He highlighted unforced errors in the third term and missed opportunities earlier in the match but praised Sissi Scott‑Hickie’s midfield efforts and the defensive work of Jaimie Olorenshaw and Minerva Bailey.

Fitzroy held off a spirited Kew outfit in a tight, physical contest 4.5.29 to 3.2.20. Stephanie Tredwell kicked two goals, with Nadia Conte and Evie Lee adding singles. Lauren Atkinson was superb down back, consistently winning one‑on‑one contests, while Olivia Brilliant’s return added valuable pressure around the ball.

Coach Nathan Jumeau said his side “never really got the game on our terms but still fought out a win”, acknowledging the match lacked flow due to Kew’s strong defensive structure.

Kew coach Mannie Di Parsia was extremely pleased despite the result, praising the group’s courage, pressure and unity. In particular, Di Parsia highlighted their extraordinary tackle count of over 80. Coach Di Parsia emphasised the growth of the young group and the potential it has over the longer term.

Lily Barr (two goals), Lauralee Rinaldi and Sophia De Castella were among Kew’s best.

Looking ahead to Round 7, West Brunswick travel to face Old Geelong, St Kevin’s face Old Scotch, Westbourne Grammarians play Fitzroy and Old Brighton make the trip to Kew. Caulfield Grammarians have the bye.