Number Crunching: VFLW – Week 2 Finals
LAST week’s Victorian Football League (VFL) Women’s preliminary final proved to be a shock as minor premier, Collingwood was overpowered by a fierce Geelong side. From finishing in fourth place, Geelong has climbed its way into the Grand Final with a successful series so far, beating Northern Territory (NT) in the semis and now claiming victory over the Pies.
Geelong dominated the whole game, even keeping Collingwood to a single goal until the third quarter. The Pies were not without their stripes though, kicking three goals in the fourth quarter. Collingwood’s attempt at a late comeback was in vain though with Geelong prevailing 42-28.
Geelong’s ability to work as a team is highlighted by the game-day skill of their best players. Key forward, Maddie Boyd was essential to the Cats’ game, kicking two goals as well as taking seven marks. Olivia Purcell was able to control Collingwood’s midfielders with a game-high 14 tackles, and Madeline Keryk was also fantastic with 24 disposals well as getting 10 clearances. Other top players on the ground for Geelong included Maddy McMahon, whose consistent game led to 16 disposals and a goal for her team. Richelle Cranston also notably laid seven tackles and got six clearances.
Despite losing, the Pies had their moments with good performances from players like Jaimee Lambert. Lambert was able to make 11 tackles as well as kick the final goal in the game. Lambert was a key player for the Pies, gathering 23 disposals and utilising her position as a midfielder.
Top Player Stats – VFLW Week 2 Finals
PLAYER | TEAM | G | BHD | KE | KIE | HE | HIE | HR | CM | UM | MKS | TKS |
Maddie Boyd | Geelong | 2 | 1 | 4 | 4 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 7 | 2 |
Olivia Purcell | Geelong | 0 | 0 | 1 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 14 |
Madeline Keryk | Geelong | 0 | 0 | 9 | 10 | 2 | 3 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
Maddy McMahon | Geelong | 1 | 1 | 5 | 6 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 4 |
Richelle Cranston | Geelong | 0 | 0 | 4 | 7 | 4 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7 |
Jaimee Lambert | Collingwood | 1 | 1 | 6 | 8 | 3 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 11 |