SANFLW Match Wrap | Round 14

Our final round for season 2025 seemed to arrive very quickly as we headed to Hisense Stadium to face West Adelaide.

A first quarter concentration lapse unfortunately put us on the back foot. We were comprehensively beaten in contested ball, ground ball gets, and first possession, as West Adelaide applied pressure around the contest that we could not match around the ground.

An inspirational 2nd quarter from 16-year-old forward Charlotte O’Sullivan (7 disposals, 2 marks, and 2 goals just in the 2nd term) clawed us back into the contest and we headed into half time with optimism. Young midfielders Asha Dufour (22 disposals, 8 tackles) and Georgie Fielder (21 disposals, 7 clearances) led the way and showed what we can be excited for in 2026.

The result is something we have moved past quickly. We don’t feel it was a deserved way to acknowledge so many good things that did occur throughout the year. We improved our contested work as the game went on which was pleasing. We have worked extremely hard on ball movement and control this season, but unfortunately our kicking execution was below par and we were unable to control the outside of the contest.

Our season has been a juxtaposition of farewells and exciting new beginnings. Our group shows resilience and care for one another that I am really proud of as Senior Coach.

We farewell Sam Franson, our wonderful, loyal Captain. Sam suffered a dislocated wrist in the final quarter of the game, but our superb medicos Dr Ben Magi and Alice Fry (physio) supported Sam to quickly to return to the ground for her final minutes of SANFLW football.  Jess Bates, arguably the greatest player we have witnessed so far in the SANFLW competition, ended in the best way she knew how to, with 30 disposals, 10 clearances and 10 tackles, signing out with her usual brilliance. Ellen Tyminski came back into our side for a final hurrah and showed the infectious spirit, passion and care for her teammates that she is well-known for around the club. We wish all 3 players the very best going forward and thank them for their service.

I have mentioned some of our young, determined group of players above. Both Elizabeth Johnson (10 disposals, 8 tackles) and Tessa Davis (16 disposals, 7 R50s) are both in their first year of League football and played a key role in the backline for us. We also have a core group of determined and experienced players who are ready to take us forward into new beginnings as leaders.

GFCW Best: Jess Bates, Liz Johnson, Charlotte O’Sullivan, Asha Dufour, Tessa Davis