SANFLW League Round 2 Match Report

In a testing Round 2 clash, our ladies faced off against North Adelaide at Hisense Stadium of nearly 40-degree heat. In a game that demanded not just physical prowess but mental fortitude, one notable lineup change was made. Olivia Smith who was sidelined due to a shoulder injury was replaced by Grace McNicol, who made her first league appearance of 2024. Grace added fresh energy and determination to the team.

The match kicked off with North Adelaide setting the pace, snagging the first and only goal of the opening quarter despite doubling their inside 50’s. The momentum shifted dramatically as our team roared back in the second quarter, which saw a trio of goals courtesy of Nicole Hooper, Chloe Tonkin and Lauren Young flipping the script and giving us a 14-point lead at halftime.

Despite the resurgence, North Adelaide refused to back down, keeping us goalless in the third quarter while adding a goal to their tally. This cut our lead to a mere 7 points as the final quarter loomed, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish.

Undeterred, our team ramped up the pressure in the last quarter. Nicole Hooper and Chloe Tonkin once again proved instrumental, each hitting the scoreboard to extend our lead which allowed us to get a comfortable 3-goal win at home.

What turned into a hard-earned victory, in what can only be described as trying conditions. This win over North Adelaide propels us to a promising start to the season standing undefeated with 2 wins and 0 losses.

Asha Dufour battled throughout with 20 disposals at 80% efficiency, Keeley Kustermann had 19 disposals and Zoe Venning was again good with 18 disposals.

Looking ahead, the focus shifts to our next challenge against Sturt on Saturday night. With the Development League match set to commence at 4:00 pm followed by the League match at 6:00 pm.

Best Players: Keeley Kustermann, Emma Kilpatrick, Asha Dufour, Nicole Hooper, Lucy Boyd, Jemma Ellis

Goals: Nicole Hooper, Chloe Tonkin (2), Lauren Young (1)