Coaches Report – SANFLW League and Development Squad

West Adelaide 2.6.18
Sturt 3.4.22

Round four saw us head to Unley Oval to face a Sturt team fresh off a solid win against Glenelg the previous week, so we knew we had a tough challenge ahead. We would need to play our best football to get the result we wanted.

We lost the toss, which meant we had to kick into a slight breeze, but our defense stood up well. Pip Worthly, who had the task of marking one of Sturt’s key forwards, continued her strong form from the previous round, contributing some excellent rebound efforts. Alongside her, Tiana Fernandez and the defence held firm, and we even managed to create some early opportunities to get on the scoreboard. At the end of the first quarter, the scores were level at one point each, and we felt pleased with our effort, especially considering we were kicking into the wind.

The second term started, but we struggled to make the most of the conditions. We had several chances going forward, but only managed to come away with two points. Unfortunately, Sturt took advantage of the quarter and scored the only goal. At halftime, we found ourselves trailing by six points.

During the break, we focused on resetting and getting back to our Westies-style of play. Early in the third quarter, we managed to move the ball forward, but again we couldn’t convert, only scoring two more points. Our defense continued to hold strong under pressure, and we began to break even in clearances. Unfortunately, Sturt capitalized on a turnover to extend their lead, and with just seconds remaining in the quarter, a quick kick from a pack led to a Sturt mark and goal after the siren. Going into the three-quarter time break, Sturt held a 16-point lead.

At the break, the girls were encouraged to get speed on the ball and give themselves the best chance to win. The final quarter saw Zoe Venning, Hannah Button, and Ruby Ballard take control in the midfield, while Jemma Ellis stood tall in the ruck. Our first goal came through a great transition, starting from half-back with Tiana Fernandez, through the midfield to Nicole Hooper, and finally to Sarah Campbell, who ran into goal and finished with confidence. You could see the team’s spirits lift from that moment.

For the next few minutes, we managed to lock the ball in our forward line but couldn’t convert. The girls kept pushing, and after some strong forward pressure, Sarah Campbell took a great mark and went back to kick truly, bringing us within four points with eight minutes still to play. In the final few minutes, we had several more opportunities going forward, but Sturt’s pressure prevented us from getting the goal we needed to take the lead.

There were plenty of lessons to take away from this game, and as we head into the Gather Round break, there’s much to work on. Our standout players for the day included Pip Worthly, Tiana Fernandez, Ruby Ballard, and Zoe Venning in the midfield, as well as defender Emma Chapman.

In two weeks, we’ll face the undefeated Eagles at home, right before the Senior Men’s game. It’s time to get back on the winners’ list!

Best:
Pip Worthly
Tiana Fernandez
Ruby Ballard

Goals:
Sarah Campbell 2

Bruce Dawes
SANFLW Head Coach

Development Squad Round 6
West Adelaide 3.1.19
Sturt 6.8.44

Facing a strong Sturt side this week, we were challenged early and took time to settle into the game. Our first half was well below our expectations, allowing Sturt too many easy clearances which led to repeat inside 50s and scoreboard pressure. We went into the main break trailing by 30 points, needing a lift across all areas of the ground.

To the group’s credit, the response after halftime was outstanding. We came out with renewed purpose and fierce determination, starting with a brilliant centre clearance from Bella Walden that set the tone for the second half. From there, our pressure lifted, we created repeat forward entries, and began to play with the courage and toughness that defines our brand. Pleasingly, we kept Sturt scoreless in the final quarter and finished the game with real momentum.

Paige Allan was our best on ground, playing a slightly different role off half-back. Her elite kicking and explosive pace gave us plenty of drive, and she pushed hard all day in a clear sign she’s ready to break back into a strong league side.

Izzy Trimboli was once again impressive across half-back, showing composure under pressure and real toughness in the contest. Mary-Rose Bahls Kildea continued her impressive run of form down back, combining beautifully with the ever-reliable Kayla Mudge and Angela Rose, who both supported her with their smart positioning and strong defensive efforts.

It was great to welcome Amy Marin back into the side. Her composure and repeat efforts through the midfield provided a much-needed steadying influence, and she worked hard to present options and link up play.

Emma Robinson was tireless in the ruck, giving her all across four quarters. Her connection with the midfield group is continuing to develop and really shone in the second half with several clean taps leading to strong clearance work.

A special mention goes to veteran Nicole Biagi, whose relentless effort was capped off by a late goal, lifting the group and showing her leadership in the contest. Izzy Spooner also found her range in front of goal, slotting a couple of majors with her trademark dead-eye accuracy in the second half.

Although we didn’t walk away with the win—Sturt 6.8 (44) to West Adelaide 3.1 (19)—the second-half performance gave us plenty to build on. As I have said for a number of weeks now, if we can replicate that level of intent and pressure for four quarters, we know we can match it with anyone in the competition.

Best:
Paige Allan
Izzy Trimboli
Mary Rose Bahls Kildea
Amy Marin
Emma Robinson

Lauren Gee
Coach