Geelong’s VFL Women’s side has continued their impressive season after a thrilling 8.3 (51) to 7.2 (44) victory against Carlton at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday.
Both teams went goal for goal for most of the match, with Carlton leading by just six points at three quarter time.
The Cats and the Blues both won plenty of the contested ball in the midfield and capitalised on their opportunities in the forward line, in what was a true old-fashioned shoot-out.
But it was star forward Kate Darby who shone in the final quarter, kicking two vital goals to secure victory for the Cats.
Geelong VFLW coach Paul Hood was happy with his side’s four quarter effort against quality opposition, and also attributed the support of the home crowd in securing the win.
“We were really delighted to be able to pull through and get the win. Carlton played well and made our night difficult,” Hood said.
“Our team showed great resilience to get back in front after trailing on multiple occasions,” he said.
“No doubt the support of the crowd inspired the players in the final quarter. We felt the game was a great spectacle and an excellent occasion for the club.”
Hood was also satisfied with the composure that the Cats brought.
“Of course the four points are nice, but more importantly the character shown by the group to come back and get the next goal when we looked in trouble is something we can take confidence in,” he said.
Cats forward Michelle Fedele kicked three goals and Hood praised the effort she put in throughout the entire match.
“Michelle did a great job to finish her work around goals. She is a very talented player who has been working hard on her game,” Hood said.
“It was great to see her get some rewards for her efforts and play a big role in helping the team get the result we wanted.”
Hood was also impressed by Maddy McMahon’s work in the ruck against Carlton AFLW player Breann Moody, being named best on ground for the Cats.
“Maddy had a huge job in the ruck, to go up against Breann Moody all game and then lead our disposal count and record seven inside 50’s. It was a tremendously versatile performance,” Hood said.
Inaugural Geelong AFLW player Danielle Orr was again among the Cats’ best.
“We thought she had a great night working through the midfield, and forward she was able to use the ball very well to set up her teammates,” Hood said.
The VFLW Cats face Melbourne Uni in their next match, who they defeated by 39 points in round one. But according to Hood, it will be a challenge against a new-look team.
“They have made a few changes since round one, bringing in some experienced AFLW players in recent weeks. It’s going to be a huge challenge and we look forward to heading up there and putting our best foot forward,” he said.
The Cats will travel to Melbourne Uni for their round five clash, scheduled at 2:30pm on Sunday.
VFL Women’s Round Four
Geelong Cats 8.3 (51) defeated Carlton 7.2 (44)
Goals: Fedele 3, Darby 2, Clifford, Currenti, Orr
Best: McMahon, Fedele, Orr, Cranston, Clifford, Garing
Injuries: Nil
Reports: Nil
@ GMHBA Stadium
