NORTH Shore Bombers and Sydney University faced off for the first time since the two sides met in last year’s AFL Sydney Women’s Premier Division Grand Final, and it lived up to all pre-game expectations. The Bombers hit the front early and the Students pegged them back to be level by the final break, and that was where the two teams stayed, sharing in a 6.3 (39) apiece thriller.

AFL Sydney Women’s Premier Division: Round 6

In what loomed as a pivotal contest, Sydney University refused to be shaken off by North Shore, clawing back from a narrow deficit to level the scores at three-quarter time and then trade two goals apiece in a breathless final term to share the points. Amanda Farrugia was at her best with 25 disposals, 11 clearances and eight tackles, while Saskia Johnson (17 disposals, eight tackles) was a tireless contributor through the middle. Lucy Gilfedder, Emma Walsh and Jessica Lee Urquhart all booted two goals in a performance that will give the Students plenty of confidence.

For the Bombers, Sophie Kavanagh (16 disposals, eight clearances, six tackles, five inside 50s) was again impressive, while Adrienne Keeffe was dangerous up forward with two goals from three contested marks, and Grace Hill (16 disposals, three inside 50s) worked hard in a result that may prove costly come finals.

Rebecca Privitelli was in devastating form once again as UNSW-ES Bulldogs kept up their relentless run of big wins, piling on 14.8 (92) to 0.0 (0) against Parramatta Goannas. The ex-AFLW forward booted nine goals from 16 disposals and eight marks – four of them contested – in another display that underlines just how formidable the Bulldogs are at full strength. Emily Conlan (22 disposals, four inside 50s, one goal) and Shelby Koh (18 disposals, four marks) provided good support through the midfield, while Sera Kaukiono (17 disposals, three clearances, five tackles) and Taylor Smith (two goals) also contributed.

For the winless Goannas, Megan Mifsud (19 disposals, six tackles), Montana Doubell (15 disposals, six clearances, eight tackles) and Zara Stanford (20 disposals, four clearances, six inside 50s) were again the standouts in a difficult afternoon.

UTS Bats continued to build their credentials as a genuine finals contender with a 18.16 (124) to 0.0 (0) demolition of Pennant Hills Demons, kicking with remarkable consistency – 9.8 in each half – to move to 4-2 for the season. Ella Parker was best on ground with 29 disposals, ten marks and three goals, while Olivia Morris (28 disposals, six clearances, eight inside 50s, a goal) was equally influential. Brianna-Lee Wade was the most prolific scorer with 7.2 from 14 disposals, and Taylah Canobie (20 disposals, six clearances) rounded out an impressive midfield day.

For the Demons, Maddison Kernaghan (24 disposals) was the top ball-winner and Ashleigh Grubba (19 disposals, seven marks) tried hard in another difficult afternoon for the competition’s bottom side.

St George Dragons claimed what could prove the result of their season, defeating East Coast Eagles 4.5 (29) to 2.5 (17) to record the club’s first win over an former heavyweight. The Dragons led all the way with four first-half goals setting up the victory, with Ruby O’Dwyer (24 disposals, four inside 50s) and Kaitlyn Eisenhuth (22 disposals, five marks, three clearances) controlling the contest, while Chantelle Ladner kicked two goals in a disciplined team effort.

For the Eagles, Nellie McMillan (27 disposals, five clearances), Skye Southon (23 disposals, six inside 50s) and Erin Naden (19 disposals, five tackles, a goal) were the pick of the performers in a result that will sting a rebuilding side.

Manly Warringah Wolves had the bye in Round 6, with a league-wide bye taking place across Round 7 before the action returns on May 23.