COLLINGWOOD has made a massive statement in Round 3 of the VFL Women’s, dismantling the Western Bulldogs by 83 points at Whitten Oval to claim top spot on the ladder. The Magpies produced a clinical four-quarter performance, keeping the Bulldogs scoreless for the first three terms before cruising to a commanding 13.7 (85) to 0.2 (2) victory.

The Magpies were relentless from the opening bounce, racing out to a 38-point lead by quarter-time and never looking back. Collingwood’s midfield dominance and potent forward line proved far too much for the Bulldogs to handle, as the Magpies dominated the territory battle and capitalised on their scoring opportunities with clinical efficiency.

Leading the charge for the Magpies was skipper Dominique Carbone, who put on a midfield clinic with 24 disposals, 14 kicks, 10 handballs, and four clearances, while also hitting the scoreboard with three crucial goals. Up forward, Amelia Peck was an unstoppable force, booting four goals from 11 disposals and five marks, whilst also contributing 10 hitouts when rotating through the ruck.

The Magpies’ depth was on full display with several other key contributors. Abbey Tregellis was immense around the stoppages, racking up 25 disposals and seven clearances, while Tahlia Sanger (23 disposals, seven tackles, five clearances) and Stella Huxtable (22 disposals, four marks, one goal) provided exceptional support through the engine room. Ruck Erin McKinnon dominated the ruck contests with a massive 42 hitouts, giving her midfielders first use all afternoon.

For the Western Bulldogs, it was a tough day at the office after their promising Round 2 victory. Over-ager Jorja Livingstone battled bravely to finish with 16 disposals, 13 kicks, and five tackles, while Tamara Henry also fought hard with 16 disposals. Former Magpie Sarah Sansonetti and experienced campaigner Erica Fowler (five disposals, six tackles, eight hitouts) worked tirelessly under immense pressure in the defensive half, but the Bulldogs simply could not find a way past Collingwood’s resolute defensive structures.

AROUND THE GROUNDS

Essendon 2.4 (16) def. by Williamstown 9.15 (69)

Williamstown bounced back in style at Windy Hill, delivering a clinical 53-point victory over Essendon. The Seagulls dominated from start to finish, using their superior ball movement and contest work to overwhelm the Bombers. Emily Eaves was sensational for the victors, racking up a game-high 29 disposals, six marks, six tackles, and five clearances. She was brilliantly supported by Naomi Ferres, who also collected 29 disposals and five clearances. Up forward, Mia Zielinski was a constant threat, booting three goals from 19 disposals and eight marks, while Neve Crowley also kicked three majors from 17 disposals and nine marks. For the Bombers, Sophie Molan was consistent as ever with 21 disposals, while Eloise Chaston (16 disposals, seven tackles) battled hard through the midfield.

Geelong 3.7 (25) def. by Box Hill Hawks 7.5 (47)

Box Hill Hawks continued their strong form with a hard-fought 22-point win over Geelong at Deakin University. The Hawks’ defensive pressure and efficiency inside 50 proved to be the difference in a highly contested match. Tess Cattle was outstanding for Box Hill, accumulating 23 disposals, five marks, 10 tackles, and four clearances. Matilda Van Berkel provided excellent run and carry with 20 disposals and six tackles, while Annabelle Embelton was a focal point up forward, booting three goals to go with 18 disposals and six tackles. Kayley Kavanagh was another standout in, racking up 24 disposals and eight tackles, while in defeat Lucy Marescuk worked tirelessly to finish with 21 disposals and eight tackles and Nikita Harris kicked 2.2 from 17 disposals.

North Melbourne Werribee 8.14 (62) def. Darebin Falcons 4.4 (28)

Reigning premiers North Melbourne Werribee maintained their perfect start to the season, overcoming a spirited Darebin Falcons by 34 points at Arden Street Oval. The Kangaroos’ class eventually shone through, pulling away in the second half after a competitive opening. Former Cat Abby Favell was superb in the midfield, collecting 24 disposals, seven marks, nine tackles, and seven clearances. Alana Barba was equally influential, racking up 23 disposals, six clearances, and booting two goals. Renee Tierney was the star inside 50, booting three goals from 15 disposals and seven marks. For the Falcons, Alyssa Mifsud fought valiantly with 21 disposals and five clearances, while skipper Caitlin Bunker led from the front with 14 disposals and six tackles.

Carlton 5.6 (36) def. Sandringham Zebras 3.6 (24)

Carlton ground out a crucial 12-point victory over the Sandringham Zebras in a defensive struggle at IKON Park. The Blues’ ability to win the contested ball and control territory late in the game secured the four points with the goals to nil in the last term. Hannah Scott was absolutely immense for Carlton, putting on an extraordinary individual performance with 35 disposals, five marks, 10 tackles, and five clearances. Zoe Larkins was also influential with 19 disposals and seven marks, while Steph Demeo tried hard with 24 disposals and eight marks, Maya Fuller had seven clearances and 12 tackles from 24 disposals, and Tahlia Plunkett (20 disposals) was lively. For the Zebras, Emma Stuber proved clinical up forward with three goals from eight disposals and Charlotte Taylor (20 disposals, seven tackles, seven clearances) battled courageously all day.

Port Melbourne 11.6 (72) def. Tasmania Devils 7.5 (47)

Port Melbourne secured an impressive 25-point victory over the Tasmania Devils at ETU Stadium in the standalone Sunday fixture. The Borough’s offensive synergy was on full display, kicking 11 goals to withstand a competitive Devils outfit. Mia Caffry was outstanding for Port Melbourne, accumulating 28 disposals and eight clearances. Courtney Jones was also exceptional, finishing with 26 disposals, 10 clearances, and two goals. Eloise Ashley-Cooper provided great balance with 24 disposals and 11 tackles, while Georgia Foran and Nicola Davidson both booted three goals. For the Devils, Grace White was excellent with 13 disposals, eight marks, and two goals, while Libby Haines (10 disposals, 10 tackles, one goal) and Joherty Revell (eight disposals, 15 hitouts, two goals) fought hard in a high-scoring encounter.