Coaches Report – Women’s Round 5 / Development Round 7

Round 5 Women’s

West Adelaide 3.4.22 V Eagles 6.4.40

Round Five saw us take on the undefeated Woodville West Torrens at Hisense Stadium in what was a highly anticipated match. The lead-up to the game was filled with positive energy and enthusiasm from the girls, and with the added bonus of playing before our senior men’s team, it was a fantastic whole-club event.

We made just one change to the team from our previous match, with Tess Huxtable returning and Emma Chapman unavailable.

The match began as a fiercely contested battle, with both sides having their moments early. It wasn’t until the 8-minute mark that Woodville West Torrens broke through with the first goal. Unfortunately, they followed up with a second just minutes later. Our defense worked hard under pressure, as we struggled to get the ball forward. At the 13-minute mark, a well-executed transition through our midfield allowed Emma Kilpatrick to take a strong mark 30m out. She converted the set shot to bring the margin back to 7 points. However, the Eagles’ relentless pressure across the ground led to two more goals late in the quarter. At quarter time, the Eagles led 4.1 (25) to our 1.0 (6).

At the break, we focused on halting the Eagles’ momentum and lifting our own intensity—and the girls responded well. The contest remained tight, with both sides struggling to score. Our defense, led by Captain Madi Russell, Tiana Fernandez, and Pip Worley, held firm. Despite several inside-50 entries, we couldn’t convert our chances. At the 15-minute mark, the Eagles extended their lead with a goal. But just three minutes later, Ruby Ballard took an excellent intercept mark just outside our forward 50, played on confidently, took a bounce, and slotted a brilliant running goal to reduce the margin back to 16 points heading into halftime.

The halftime message centered around composure and sticking to our structures. Again, we started well, creating early opportunities, though we were unable to capitalise. The defense continued to stand strong under pressure, while our midfield began to gain control, winning more clearances and hit-outs. Despite the lift in intensity, neither team managed to kick a goal, a testament to the pressure being applied across the ground.

We entered the final quarter confident we could close the gap. Within three minutes, Sarah Campbell’s forward pressure was rewarded with a holding-the-ball free kick, which she calmly converted to bring the margin back to 11 points. We continued to push forward and create chances, but couldn’t capitalise on the scoreboard. At the 8-minute mark, the Eagles kicked what would be the final goal of the match, stretching the lead back out to 17 points. Despite a tight and hard-fought finish, neither side added further goals. The game finished with Woodville West Torrens 6.4 (40) defeating West Adelaide 3.4 (22).

We matched the top team for three quarters, showing great character and effort. However, the early deficit proved too much to overcome. It’s a key lesson for us—against the best, we can’t afford slow starts.

We had a number of strong contributors to the team. Best players were Madi Russell, who was outstanding in defense and led from the front, Tiana Fernandez who was rock solid down back, Ruby Ballard who provided spark and skill including a brilliant goal, Zoe Venning with another consistent performance, and Emily Mableson who was impactful across the ground.

We face Central District in Round Six—another team hungry for a win and sitting in a similar spot on the ladder. It’s a crucial game to get our season back on track. Join us again at Hisense Stadium on Saturday the 27th, following the U16s and U18s matches. Let’s get back on the winners’ list!

Goals: Ruby Ballard (1.1), Sarah Campbell (1.), Emma Kilpatrick (1)

Best Players: Madi Russell, Tiana Fernandez, Ruby Ballard, Zoe Venning, Emily Mableson.

– Bruce Dawes (Women’s Coach)

Women’s Development Round 7 

West Adelaide 5.1.31 V Eagles 3.6.24

What a way to finish the season! In a thrilling final-minute victory, Sarah Deed sealed the game with a clutch goal that saw us come away with a well-earned win over Woodville-West Torrens. The final score—5.1 (31) to 3.6 (24)—was a testament to the grit, determination, and growth our group has shown all season. We had contributors across every line, making it incredibly tough to pick just five standouts. Leading the way was Kayla Mudge, whose consistent work rate and 1-1 defensive efforts – shutting down a key player for the Eagles – earned her best-on-ground and ANZAC Day Medal honours. Gracie Sim was also relentless all day, bringing immense pressure and elite 2 way running, setting the tone for her teammates across the ground.

We were thrilled to welcome Steph Tredwell back from injury, and her presence as a key forward proved crucial. Her ability to take contested marks and provide a strong link between defence and attack gave us structure and momentum through the middle of the ground. Down back, Tahlia Cua was immense. Her pressure, tackling, and leadership ensured every Eagles possession was hard-fought. Without her tenacity, there’s no doubt the opposition would’ve hit the scoreboard early.

We also saw season-best performances from Haylee Thilthorpe, Summer Malone, Bree Chapman, and veteran Nicola Biagi, whose selfless and team-first approach continues to inspire the group week after week.

It was incredibly exciting and rewarding to see the group come together and finish the season with a performance that so clearly demonstrated our development. The effort and determination on display reflect the hard work put in throughout the year. I’m confident every player now understands what’s required at the next level, and they’ll carry this belief and momentum into the push for league selection in the weeks to come.

Best Players: Kayla Mudge, Gracie Sim, Steph Tredwell, Tahlia Cua, Nicola Biagi

– Lauren Gee (Development Coach)