GFCW Hold Out the Heat in Round 2

In a game of incredibly challenging conditions, it was a highly charged battle between Glenelg and Sturt. The heat had only just started when the first bounce occurred with Glenelg running out eventual winners by 26 points. A really slow start from Glenelg saw Sturt make use of the breeze with 2 goals in the opening quarter. Second to the ball often meant that Sturt were able to send the ball into their forward line 8 more times, although solid defence from Lauren Edwards at full back with rebounding attack from Sarah Goodwin, it felt like we were wasteful between the arcs and didn’t modify to the conditions well and paid for it by being held scoreless in the opening term.

The second quarter saw us making a concerted change in our endeavour and intent to the contest and game systems, led by the remarkable Piper Window who finished the game with 21 disposals and a goal. It felt like we were able to reset at the break and make the most of the breeze. 16 more inside 50’s than Sturt saw the midfield dominate with tackle pressure, clearance work and first possession. We were able to find some connection moving forward with 4 individual goal scorers for the quarter in Kellock, Duffy, Tonon and Window.

The third quarter required an adjustment in tactics heading into the wind, and we were able to capitalise early with a mark to captain Sam Franson, her first for season 2024 after missing majority of last year with injury. I was pleased with our composure and support at the contest and thought we did a really good job for 17 minutes until a timely error on kick in cost us a goal. We had our opportunities as well, leading tackle count and possession showing our ability and intent. Our wing recruit in Ash Dyer supported with Ella Boag and Grace Duffy worked tirelessly in the ruck and pushing back to support our backline.

Heading into the last quarter with a narrow lead, the game was a bit of a grind for the first 10 minutes until Ellie Kellock took a great mark and goaled, and the game was able to open up. Contested possession and contest have been a focus for us this pre-season and pleasingly able to have +15 contested possessions for the last quarter. Our defence again showed why they’re a force to be reckoned with, working as a tight unit, Sturt just couldn’t break through with only 3 inside 50s for the quarter to our 13. Jess Bates finished the game like she started and led from the front with 8 disposals, 7 of those contested to really set us up in the midfield.

Again, it was a game that perhaps historically, would have got away from us. But our ability to support, play to our strengths and run out a strong fourth quarter in really trying conditions is a testament to the focus of our whole group. Although the reserves were postponed, the remainder of the squad ran their own training and conditioning session before the game, and I am sure they are hungry for success next time they take the field. These are all the attitudes and growth I have seen from the playing group collectively this year demonstrating a strong desire for success.

– Lexia Edwards, Senior Coach

Goal Kickers: Kellock (2), Tonon (2), Duffy, Searle, Franson, Window