Tigers bring down ladder leaders

Sturt have been the most improved team so far in the 2022 season, sitting on top of the ladder going into this round. Our players were still hurting from our Round 2 loss to them, so the opportunity to once again measure ourselves against the ladder leaders was something we were all looking forward to.

The return of Sam Franson and Jess Searle gave us a real lift. In addition to this, the debut of Annabel Mould from our South East zone was a great reward for her significant improvement and strong form in our Development team throughout their season.

After making some adjustments to the pregame routine, our start to the game was much improved. Despite this, Sturt managed to kick the first goal of the game. We then started to get our game going, kicking the next two goals and taking a 7-point lead into the first break.

We began to control the territory battle in the second quarter, kicking another two goals while keeping Sturt to just one behind. Our midfield was starting to get some control and our defenders provided us with some good rebound. We increased our lead to 20 points at the main break.

Sturt definitely lifted inside the contest during the third quarter, in which we were a little slow to react to. It was goal for goal, with both teams kicking a couple each for the quarter. We had a 19 point lead at the last break, but fully aware the door was still well and truly open for our opponents.

Our last quarter was some of our best football for the day. We once again controlled the territory battle and the scoreboard, kicking three goals and having seven scoring shots to Sturt’s one shot for one behind.

Last week I wrote in the game review that we learnt a lot from our Round 8 loss. Pleasingly, all the learnings taken from Round 8 were clearly on display in this week’s game. It was also evident that the lessons taken from our Round 2 loss to Sturt had also been learnt.

I would like to make a special mention to our Lladers for how they have lead us throughout the season, but especially over the last 3-4 weeks where we have had many off field challenges to contend with. Rather than make any excuses, they have ensured we all remain accountable for how we are performing and that we are driven to constantly improve. I have no doubt we will be a much better team for these galvanizing experiences. Most importantly, they haven’t lost sight of the need for us to have some fun, some laughs and enjoy each other’s company on this great journey we are all on.

This week we have a bye. Our next game is the last game in the ANZAC Day triple header against the Eagles at Woodville Oval.

– Jason Fairall, senior coach

Goal kickers: Sam Franson (2), Chelsea Packer (2), Jess Bates (1), Violet Patterson (1), Jess Searle (1), Taylah Scapens (1), Sarah Wilton (1)

Best: Jess Bates, Shay’Lee Dayman, Sam Franson, Sheridan Howell, Violet Patterson – many honourable mentions but I would like to acknowledge Ellie Kellock, Chelsea Packer and Madi Freeman.