Round 8 showcases GFCW team-first attitude

We are just starting to play teams for the second time through the season, in our first year of a full roster. 

This week, we faced Sturt in a game we knew would be hard fought. Sturt we knew would bounce back from a hard game the previous week, but we worked hard for the duration, to end up 13 point winners.

Another team performance, beginning with our midfield with new recruit Jo Miller shining in her midfield role, tallying 32 disposals and 11 tackles. Jess Bates continued her stellar form with 35 disposals, 7 clearances, and 11 tackles, proving invaluable once again. Overall, the game began in the midfield and once we gained control of the contest the game started heading in our favour.

The game kicked off with intense contests, marked by frequent stoppages and tough battles for possession. Despite Glenelg facing pressure, especially at the source, offensive movement was a challenge even with the breeze. However, we managed to open the scoring with a goal from Lucy Armitage late in the first. Sturt rallied in the second quarter, notching up 2 goals. However, Glenelg found their rhythm, utilising uncontested possessions and swift ball movement to respond with 2 goals of our own, courtesy of Jordan Horne and Lucy Armitage.

The third quarter showcased our dominance, with a staggering 16-1 inside 50s advantage. Despite Sturt’s defensive efforts, we controlled both contested and uncontested possessions, asserting our authority in all aspects of the game. In the final quarter, Jorja Eldridge’s best performance for the season performance saw her bagging 2 early goals. We made a couple of positional changes, and this allowed Sturt managed 2 quick goals towards the end, our comfortable 26-point lead proved insurmountable, securing a 13-point victory for Glenelg.

With this win, we head into the bye week sitting comfortably at 7-1 on the ladder, a significant improvement from last season. The girls’ hard work in preseason has paid off, but the most satisfying aspect is that all games have been won on account of the whole team, playing for each other. Playing on ANZAC Day was a profound honour as we paid tribute to the sacrifices of our service personnel, allowing us to enjoy the privilege of participating in this great game.

We head into the bye as the Women’s State game return for the first time since 2016. We have a collection of our players in this game – Jess Bates, Marie Martino and our own captain Sam Franson.

– Lexia Edwards, Senior Coach