Hawthorn hold on to win as top spot is up for grabs – Division 3 Women’s Round 15 Review

Old Yarra Cobras 1.5 (11) def by Parkdale Vultures 4.4 (28)

Parkdale have held on to top spot on the ladder with a 17-point win over last-placed Old Yarra.

After a scoreless first quarter for the Vultures, the second quarter saw them put 2 goals on the board, to the Cobras single point.

A goal from the Cobras in the third quarter clawed the margin back to six points. The Vultures remained composed to kick two goals in the last to seal the game and remain on top of the ladder.

Vultures coach Jess Welford applauded her team’s performance.

“It was a strong team effort in a hard-fought match against Old Yarra. The windy conditions made scoring at one end difficult, but we were able to take greater advantage of our opportunities.

“Super proud of all our players this season so far, especially our newer players. Lots of positives to take away from the game, as well as plenty for us to work on moving forward.”

Old Yarra coach Bree Pascoe highlighted her team’s continued development.

“Another week where improvements were evident from the group. We were able to bring some much-needed speed back into the team, which has been an area where opposition teams have been able to open us up in previous rounds.

“Our ability to move the ball and cover the ground was much better this week, allowing us to compete for longer periods and put more pressure on the opposition.

“We also managed to get the ball inside our forward 50 a lot more frequently, which was a positive step forward and showed improvement in our ball movement and ability to transition forward.

“Unfortunately, we were again unable to capitalise on these opportunities on the scoreboard, with our forward-half entries not resulting in the reward they deserved.”

Hawthorn 5.8 (38) def Prahran/Collegians 5.3 (33)

Hawthorn held on in a tight contest with Prahran/Collegians to keep them in the running for top spot coming into the last round.

It was a quick start from the Hawks kicking 1.5 in the first quarter and keeping the Two Blue Lions scoreless in the first.

It was the second quarter where the tides turned with the Hawks kept scoreless, whilst Prahran/Collegians kicked three goals to clinch the lead.

With a point the difference at three quarter time, it was the Hawks who kicked two goals to seal the victory and remain equal on points with first.

Prahran Vice-president Paul Taylor shared his thoughts on the tight contest.

“It was a fierce, tight contest and one the team can be very proud of. It was a confidence-boosting performance that showed the Two Blue Lions can mix it with the best.

“The second quarter showcased rapid ball movement and impressive midfield transitions, arguably our best football of the year, highlighting excellent ball use, good decision-making and team cohesion.

“Mikayla Collins was outstanding across half-forward, finishing with two goals in a complete performance. Molly Crighton impressed through the midfield, while ruck, Millie Stonnil controlled the contest all day, giving the mids first use.”

Caulfield Grammarians 2.4 (16) def by Old Haileybury 8.5 (53)

It was a dominant performance from Old Haileybury boosting their percentage to sit second on the ladder.

A four goal first quarter set up the victory for the Hearts as Reanna Barbakas kicked four majors.

The third quarter ensured victory for away side, kicking four goals and extending the lead to 39 points at three quarter time.

In the end it was a 37-point win for Old Haileybury that sets them up to potentially snag top spot if Parkdale falters this weekend.

Caulfield coach Lachy Worthy lauded his team’s effort and highlighted the strength of the opposition.

“Old Haileybury showed why they are the benchmark in Div 3. They came out from the start with strong marking and quick ball movement to hit the scoreboard early which had us on the back foot for the rest of the day.

“Our defence battled hard with Jess Van Es and Pearl Bainbridge intercepting and taking the game on. Emily Robinson and Fi Adinata worked hard in the midfield, but we couldn’t convert enough opportunities in our front half. We will look to finish the season on a strong note as we head into the last round.”

In the final round this weekend, Parkdale will host Caulfield at home. Old Haileybury will travel to face Prahan/Collegians at Harry Trott Oval and Hawthorn are up against Old Yarra at home.