Match Report – Under 16 Girls – Round 1, 2019

U16 Girls – Lilydale/Kilsyth vs Bayswater.

A sunny, but windy day greeted us as we arrived at Pinks Reserve. Our opponents, Lilydale/Kilsyth had 18 players, and we had a full list of 15 available, so we decided to play 15 a side. Emily Prior was our captain for the day.

We welcomed several new players to the team:
– Charli and Chya, who played a few games with us last year.
– Chenoa, Julia, and Elise up from the Under 14s.
– Jordan, transferred from another club.
– Isabella and Sienna, totally new to footy.

We lost the toss, and had to kick against the wind in the first quarter. Lilydale/Kilsyth got off to a good start, kicking three goals and holding us scoreless in the first quarter. Unfortunately, the second quarter mirrored the first, despite us kicking with the wind. Our third quarter was much better, with both sides kicking a goal each, including Darcy’s first ever goal for the club. Lilydale/Kilsyth kicked three more goals in the last quarter to end up winning the game 10.9-69 to 1.2-8.

As usual, we were strong in our tackling and intensity around the contest. This seemed to wane a little bit as the quarters went on, so we need to learn to make second and third efforts, even though we are often outnumbered and tired. As we got tired, Lilydale/Kilsyth managed to get free players, making it easier for them to score. As I mentioned at the end of the game, I was disappointed with our lack of discipline, which cost us two or three easy goals. We need to learn to control our emotions a little bit better. Other than this, I saw some really good signs. Every girl made a contribution to the game. Jordan and Sienna stepped up to help out our warrior Em CT in the ruck. Chloe did some amazing kick ins from full back, after Alanna was feeling a bit worse for wear. A highlight was Chenoa taking a really strong, safe, courageous mark in the backline. Probably most pleasing was our team starting to string some chains of play together during the game. There was a nice recognition for Emily Prior at the end of the game receiving an award from our opposition.

Thank you to our runner Kyle, water carrier Skye, trainer Jodie and team manager Mandy, assistant coach Ben, and our other parent helpers on the day.

Andrew Robertson
U16 Girl’s Coach