Much has been spoken about and much has been thought about the Wattle Park AFC women’s team this season after a rollercoaster first couple years of existence. But after a preseason to steady the ship that culminated in a practice match win, a round one loss doesn’t detract too much from what they’re building.
For the Animals to have more scoring shots in the first quarter than their opposition already speaks to the amount of growth and development the team has gone through in the offseason, but inaccuracy in front of goal, is arguably, what cost them the game.
Wattle Park were never out of the low-scoring affair, going into the first break down by just four with the forwards having seen a lot more of the ball than they’re used to. Intent to score and purposeful ball movement were highlights for the Animals, particularly in the first half.
A few third quarter lapses meant Elsternwick were able to get the ball inside 50 too often. Despite some brilliance from first-gamer Jemima Clancy who came streaming into the forward line to score her first goal for the club, Elsternwick took a ten-point lead into the final term.
That buffer would prove to be the difference as the Animals struggled to keep the ball inside their forward 50, but it was a valiant effort nonetheless.
Maddy Mazar’s ruck prowess continues to evolve, meaning it’s a surprise to no one that she took best-on-ground honours after spending the whole game on the field. In their first ever games for the club, Caity Power and Elli Haylock also made the best players’ list, as did the side’s only goalscorer in Clancy.
WP 1.7.13
ELS 4.5.29
A Power House side fresh off a good win awaits the Women’s side in round 2 when they travel to Ross Gregory Oval for the first triple header of the year. As usual, they will begin the day at 9:20am, before the Reserves take the field at 11:40am and the Seniors at 2pm.