THERE was no shortage of talent across a blockbuster round of action in the Coates Talent League Girls competition as the Northern Academies continued their stints, and some impressive ball-winning displays took place. We took note of just some of the players who caught the eye over the weekend, with all notes the opinion of the individual author.

>> ROUND 5: Round wrap | Player of the Week | Team of the Week

Tasmania Devils 5.6 (36) def. by GWS Giants Academy 10.8 (68)

Tasmania Devils:

#4 Ava Read
Tall Utility | 179cm | 21/06/2006

Stats: 16 disposals, 5 marks, 2 tackles, 3 clearances, 5 inside 50s, 4 rebound 50s, 1 goal

Read is no stranger to having dual roles this season and starting in defence, but for a real mixup, she was sent into the centre bounces late in to play across all three lines in the game. Funnily enough it was her tackle in there on the opposition ruck that earned her a free kick and then a double 50m penalty which put her right to the goalsquare for a major. Earlier in the game she had been a crucial intercepting force in defence, driving the ball out with reliability. Has really honed that tall defensive craft this year.

#15 Priya Bowering
Midfielder/Defender | 169cm | 02/01/2007

Stats: 22 disposals, 4 marks, 5 tackles, 7 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

It was another strong performance from the National Academy member who was first to it at the opening centre bounce, standing up while tackled to handball clear. She predominantly played through her preferred midfield position, but was sent behind the ball once the Devils lost the cover of Read. Bowering is strong in the air so can compete, and her deceptive speed that goes with her natural strength allows her to thrive once the ball hits the deck as well.

#16 Evie Ward
Defender/Midfielder | 171cm | 29/10/2008

Stats: 15 disposals, 1 mark, 7 tackles, 4 clearances, 1 inside 50, 3 rebound 50s

Highly rated internally at the Devils as a promising bottom-ager, Ward got her chance through the middle after starting in defence. She was incredibly fierce and has a great defensive intent to her football wherever she plays. Ward had a purple patch to start the third term where she won quite a few touches in a short space of time, and while she is only slight and can get outbodied in one-on-ones, is able to generate offensive movement.

#22 Matilda Lange
Forward/Midfielder | 170cm | 30/01/2009

Stats: 21 disposals, 3 tackles, 8 clearances, 2 inside 50s

Building on her debut, Lange really stepped up in game two to provide support to Bowering at the centre bounces. She will be a dominant clearance winner in the coming years, only being an Under 16s talent this year. A very clean player at ground level, Lange can use both sides of her body, and her handball timing even when under pressure is a huge advantage for the strong inside ball-winner.

#26 Harriet Bingley
Forward | 174cm | 23/03/2007

Stats: 18 disposals, 3 marks, 2 tackles, 1 hitout, 3 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 1 goal, 1 behind

Played predominantly forward in the match as a switch up from predominantly midfield, and found plenty of the ball in the front half of the ground. It was a little bit of a hit and miss game for Bingley who got caught holding the ball a couple of times, missed a set shot from close range and had a kick smothered, but to her credit she put those moments behind her to hit the scoreboard late with the last kick of the day from a set shot. A few highlights in her game were her contested marking – taking a couple – and her ferocity at ground level.

GIANTS Academy:

#19 Ellie Hall
Defender/Midfielder | 174cm | 07/07/2006

Stats: 24 disposals, 8 marks, 5 tackles, 1 clearance, 2 inside 50s, 5 rebound 50s, 1 goal

Hall started on-ball and then went into defence where she stayed providing a crucial service intercepting the ball and sending it back down the field. She is strong overhead and her height over a lot of her opponents allows her to clunk big grabs, while also reading the play exceptionally well. Hall’s first term was a busy one, hitting the scoreboard with a lovely finish on goal, and then time and time again mopped up in the back half of the ground to be among the better players on the ground.

#22 Darcie Prosser-Shaw
Defender/Midfielder | 171cm | 02/06/2008

Stats: 22 disposals, 2 marks, 5 tackles, 4 clearances, 9 inside 50s, 3 rebound 50s

A defender who is gradually going to earn more midfield minutes in the future as she showed for the Under 16s side last year, Prosser-Shaw has some outstanding athletic attributes to match her defensive prowess. She ran-down Bowering late in the second term as she was about to let loose on goal, and then also burst down the wing early in the fourth term before kicking inside 50. Like older sister Amelie, Prosser-Shaw has an aggressive style to her game. At times she can rush when at speed, but still puts the ball into advantageous situations for her teammates.

#23 Sophia Gaukrodger
Midfielder/Forward | 173cm | 16/01/2007

Stats: 16 disposals, 10 tackles, 1 inside 50

It might not have been the four-goal haul from the week before, but Gaukrodger is firmly establishing herself as one to watch for the Giants from a top-age perspective. She just seems to remain active, is happy to lay enormous amounts of tackles regardless of the reward, and has great vision when going inside 50. Her hands out of traffic and ability to win the ball around the forward stoppage stood out in this game, and even without the scoreboard reward, was a genuine exciting prospect.

#25 Majella Day
Tall Forward | 176cm | 11/03/2008

Stats: 11 disposals, 7 marks, 4 tackles, 1 clearance, 1 inside 50, 6 goals, 1 behind

It was another day out from the bottom-age forward who took a little while to feature with just the one goal in the first half and that came in the 16th minute after an early shot fell short. Day filled her boots in the second half with five majors – including three in the fourth quarter – to make it half a dozen for the day. She uses her body well to nudge her opponents under it, or can beat them on the lead, which makes her an incredibly difficult prospect to match up on.

#30 Morgan Stevens
Tall Defender | 177cm | 13/08/2008

Stats: 15 disposals, 1 mark, 3 hitouts, 1 clearance, 2 rebound 50s

Like her composure with ball in hand out of the back 50, with Stevens rarely panicked and thinks through her decisions. She is strong in the air, and even though she only took the one mark, will compete once the ball hits the deck too. Has a nice penetrating kick which helps coming out of defence.

#36 Isla Wiencke
Midfielder/Forward | 174cm | 30/03/2007

Stats: 17 disposals, 1 mark, 3 tackles, 3 clearances, 3 inside 50s, 3 rebound 50s, 1 behind

The National Academy member plays a nice team role each week, and while her numbers are nothing that leap off the page for a player of her talent, she is often heavily watched or engaged in a one-on-one which she was quite often with the likes of Bowering. Can play as a lead-up forward or around the ball and has a booming kick that clears the danger. Finished off her outing by setting up Day with her sixth major going inside 50.

Bendigo Pioneers 5.4 (34) def. by Calder Cannons 10.17 (77)

Bendigo Pioneers:

#4 Sage Dennis
Midfielder/Defender | 160cm | 22/08/2009

Stats: 17 disposals, 7 marks, 2 tackles, 2 clearances, 5 rebound 50s, 1 behind

A really tough competitor who is growing in confidence since coming into the team from the Under 16s carnival. Dennis had a great defensive performance throughout the match. The Pioneers small worked hard behind the ball and used her speed to mow down opponents or run off half-back and even if it might cost a free kick – where in one case later in the fourth term where she was a tad unlucky to give it away – her attitude is right. A neat player around the ground, she is often undersized but plays to her strengths to impact games.

#5 Ava Bibby
Ruck/Forward | 186cm | 09/05/2007

Stats: 21 disposals, 11 marks, 23 hitouts, 3 clearances, 3 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s, 1 goal, 1 behind

Was a shining light for the Pioneers through the ruck and resting forward, not only winning at the stoppages, but being a target around the ground. Bibby played her best game of the year and even in a lose looked like being a key player for the Pioneers, taking some ultra-clean marks and delivering down the ground. Her second and fourth terms yielded 17 of her 21 disposals, and she also competed at ground level which was valuable for a player of her size. A clear best-on for Bendigo and the Cannons had no answers for her impact around the ground.

#9 Beth Morris
Midfielder/Defender | 167cm | 04/09/2008

Stats: 17 disposals, 4 marks, 2 tackles, 3 clearances, 1 inside 50, 3 rebound 50s

Morris was not afraid to take on the opposition, applying a fend-off her or trying to break free from a stoppage there, and she worked her way to have a really solid day out. Composed with ball in hand, Morris is capable overhead and able to win the ball on the inside or outside and play a multitude of roles when required. Largely a midfielder, she had a snap on goal that bounced out of bounds, but did her best work behind the ball.

#14 Lacey Nihill
Defender | 172cm | 01/05/2008

Stats: 21 disposals, 8 marks, 4 tackles, 6 rebound 50s

Had her turn to be the distributor out of defence and caught the eye. With Nihill’s blend of speed and skill. she is no stranger to taking the game on, often looking for one-twos or to take grass as often as possible. She stood up when tackled to get the ball clear and provided a switch option to go to, or from the kickout. While her role was largely outside, she has the traits to perform that kind of job and did it successfully.

Calder Cannons:

#3 Chloe Baker-West
Midfielder/Defender | 165cm | 02/02/2007

Stats: 38 disposals, 14 marks, 4 tackles, 10 clearances, 7 inside 50s, 4 rebound 50s, 3 behinds

It was a stat-stuffing performance from the National Academy member who was everywhere for her side. Similar to Bibby, the Pioneers had no answers to quelling her influence as she won it all over the ground in a multitude of ways. So strong in the air for a player of her size, Baker-West can win the inside ball, outside ball, go into defence or sneak forward to have goalscoring opportunities. The latter was perhaps the only downside as she kicked three behinds, but otherwise it was a statement game and she deservedly earned our Player of the Week.

#11 Jasmina Curtis
Forward | 165cm | 08/09/2007

Stats: 20 disposals, 2 marks, 2 tackles, 2 inside 50s 3 goals, 1 behind

Caught the eye with her work up forward where she kicked three goals and had a couple of others chances. Curtis read the ball in flight well to creating leading lanes and used it effectively by hand or foot despite winning the bulk of her disposals in a contest. She kicked her first major midway through the opening term with a shot off the outside of the boot, with a second coming from quick thinking a minute into the second term close to goal. Her third one was a nice finish on the move in the pocket, and she set up a few other players to have chances as well during the match.

#15 Shauna McElligott
Forward| 162cm | 05/03/2007

Stats: 19 disposals, 1 mark, 5 tackles, 1 clearance, 8 inside 50s, 1 goal

McElligott’s promising top-age season continued on the weekend with her work largely forward of centre in this game. She presented up the ground and after a quiet first term, really got involved. Her defensive pressure is outstanding and she can finish off well too, able to throw the ball on the boot under pressure close to goal early in the fourth for a major. Her clean spin out of trouble and quick pass off in the last minute of the game was another moment that makes you stand up and take note.

#30 Coco Balmain
Tall Defender | 175cm | 01/01/2009

Stats: 10 disposals, 2 marks, 4 tackles, 2 clearances, 2 rebound 50s

Not having Bailee Martin to quell certainly would have posed less problems for the second gamer who showed promising signs in the back half of the ground. She took a couple of good marks and was able to kick long down the ground to clear on several occasions. Balmain reads the ball in flight well and positions accordingly which will hold her in good stead as she gains more experience at the level as a tall defender.

GWV Rebels 4.5 (29) def. Sydney Swans Academy 11.5 (71)

By: Erin Piez

GWV Rebels:

#1 Isabella Davies
Midfielder I 162cm I 29/10/2006

Stats: 32 disposals, 3 marks, 7 tackles, 3 inside 50s, 7 rebound 50s, 1 behind

Davies stood out as a key figure across the ground for GWV, consistently calm under pressure and composed with ball in hand. Whether it was intercepting deep in defensive 50 or pushing up the ground to impact the attack, Davies read the game exceptionally well. Her ability to peel off her opponent at the right moment and take intercept marks was a real asset for her side, often halting Sydney’s forward momentum. She showed pose with her disposals, particularly by foot, making smart and low-risk decisions to maintain control and reset play from the back half. A moment that summed up her impact came late in the second quarter when she took a strong contested mark inside defensive 50, steadied the play, and delivered a precise kick to the wing, flipping the pressure and setting up a rebound that led to a Rebels scoring opportunity.

#5 Elsie Day
Defender I 165cm I 25/08/2007
Stats: 10 disposals, 2 marks, 7 tackles, 3 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

Day played with a physical edge that gave GWV a spark across all four quarters. Her defensive pressure in the opening stages was a highlight, laying several strong tackles and chasing hard through traffic. Her ability to win contested balls in one-on-one situations and immediately surge forward helped GWV repel opposition momentum and regain territory. In the third term, she showed great composure and courage under pressure, collecting loose balls at ground level and exiting cleanly, often after absorbing contact. Her back-to-back efforts in one passage where she won the ball, released it and then followed up to do it again seconds later, accentuated her hunger in the contest. Day’s presence around the footy made it hard for the Swans midfield to move cleanly at times, and her repeat efforts were crucial in the tighter moments of the game.

#7 Maggie Johnstone
Midfielder/Forward I 171cm I 06/06/2007

Stats: 19 disposals, 2 marks, 2 tackles, 4 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

Johnstone was once again one of GWV’s most consistent contributors, setting the tone early with strong pressure acts and clean work at ground level. Her ability to pick up the ball at pace and get a clean disposal off under duress gave GWV plenty of drive from the contest. In the second term, Johnstone’s physicality stood out as she absorbed contact and still found a way to shepherd for teammates or get the ball forward. She read the play well all afternoon, positioning herself smartly both at stoppages and during open play, presenting reliably as a link-up option through the corridor and inside 50. Her work rate was relentless and her ability to win ground balls in traffic gave GWV consistent momentum.

#8 Scarlett O’Donnell
Forward/Midfielder I 171cm I 03/11/2006

Stats: 1 goal, 16 disposals, 1 mark, 4 tackles, 4 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 1 goal

O’Donnell worked hard around the ball and played a key role in providing constant forward pressure and link-up play for GWV. Her pick-ups at ground level were clean and she showed great vision with disposals that opened up play for teammates. O’Donnell’s physicality helped GWV in transition, and her willingness to crash contests and work defensively made her a valuable player in the midfield.

#9 Jovie Skewes-Clinton
Tall Utility I 176cm I 15/11/2007

Stats: 16 disposals, 2 marks, 9 tackles, 3 inside 50s, 4 rebound 50s, 1 behind

Skewes-Clinton was rock solid in defence, especially in the second half where she stood tall in a number of 1v1 contests. She read the flight of the ball well and positioned herself perfectly for several crucial intercept marks, particularly during the third quarter when the Swans were surging forward. Skewes-Clinton’s calmness under pressure allowed GWV to reset and transition the ball with control. One of her standout moments came when she collected the ball deep in defensive 50, absorbed forward pressure, and delivered a smart, composed clearance to maintain possession. Her work rate across all four quarters was enormous, constantly finding herself in the right spot to either take the mark or apply enough pressure to force an error.

Swans Academy:

#1 Charlotte Tidemann
Defender I 169cm I 08/08/2008

Stats: 25 disposals, 3 marks, 1 tackle, 1 inside 50, 7 rebound 50s

Tidemann was electric on ground, especially across half-back and on the wing, offering Swans important run and carry, particularly in the second and third quarters. She showed real composure under pressure, often taking on the game with confidence, backing her speed and foot skills to break open GWV’s structure. One of the most memorable plays of the day came midway through the third term when Tidemann gathered cleanly in defensive 50, sidestepped an opponent, and surged through the corridor with a run that left her direct opponent trailing. She delivered a pinpoint kick inside 50 to a leading forward, setting up an impressive goal-scoring opportunity. It was a perfect example of her ability to turn defence into attack in just a few strides. Beyond her offensive flair, Tidemann’s blend of pace, skill, and decision making made her a clear standout for the Swans and a real spark across the ground.

#6 Taylor Smith
Forward I 166cm I 27/09/2006

Stats: 11 disposals, 4 marks, 2 tackles, 1 inside 50, 4 goals, 1 behind

Smith provided some of the Swans’ most exciting moments. Her positioning and ability to find space inside 50 were excellent, and she capitalised with four goals in an eye-catching performance. A composed snap under pressure in the third term was a classy finish after strong work off the ball. She repeated the effort in the fourth, reading the ball well through congestion and converting again. Smith’s ability to present as a lead-up forward and finish cleanly was critical in keeping the Swans in the contest during the second half.

#7 Molly Thomas
Midfielder I 169cm I 22/04/2007

Stats: 21 disposals, 6 tackles, 7 inside 50s

Thomas had some of her best moments around congestion, showing her strength and clean hands in traffic. She had a brilliant gather and spin early in the first quarter that helped open up space and drive the ball forward for the Swans. Thomas’s work rate to follow up her disposals and apply pressure, including a particularly strong chase and tackle in the second term, kept GWV’s ball movement in check many times. Overall a strong player through the middle field and a crucial chain in Sydney’s link-up play.

#9 Lucinda Watson
Midfielder I 161cm I 25/11/2007

Stats: 23 disposals, 2 marks, 4 tackles, 2 inside 50s

Watson had several clean pickups and smart disposals throughout the match. She showed good positional awareness around the ball and often provided that crucial outlet option on the outer side. Her final quarter was particularly strong, gathering the ball off the deck under pressure and delivering a composed kick forward that set up an inside 50 entry. She was also involved in multiple crucial handball chains that helped the Swans transition from defence.

#16 Kiera Yerbury
Midfielder/Forward I 173cm I 24/07/2007

Stats: 1 goal, 26 disposals, 3 marks, 4 tackles, 4 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

Yerbury was a contested beast through the middle of the ground. Her second efforts stood out, and her ability to pick up cleanly under pressure and release to runners, especially in the first and second quarters, set the tone for the Swans early. Her chase-down efforts and physicality through the corridor showed her leadership. One of her best moments came late in the third quarter when she delivered perfectly inside 50 to a leading target and followed up for the assist.

#24 Alex Neyland
Tall Forward I 178cm I 04/09/2007

Stats: 22 disposals, 6 marks, 8 tackles, 1 inside 50, 4 rebound 50s, 1 hitout, 2 goals, 1 behind

Neyland was absolutely everywhere for Sydney in Round 5. Her speed, work rate, and reading of the ball made her one of the Swans most dangerous players around stoppages. She showed her footy IQ repeatedly, moving into space around the contest, linking up cleanly in passing chains, and even slotting a brilliant set shot in the second quarter after a strong mark. She had another quality run late in the game that saw her push from defence all the way to attack, linking the play and making herself an option again inside 50. A great example of her endurance and ability to stay involved.

Brisbane Lions Academy 3.6 (24) def. by Eastern Ranges 6.8 (44)

Lions Academy:

#1 Ameleia Murray
Defender | 163cm | 13/09/2009

Stats: 12 disposals, 5 marks, 3 tackles, 6 rebound 50s

The Under 16s All-Australian has not put a foot wrong going up to Under 18s level in the Coates Talent League and was again a shining light early in the match. She accumulated nine of her 12 disposals in the first half – including six in the first term – rebounding fiercely in that time. Though quieter in the second half, what Murray offers is smarts and composure behind the ball, reading it well and being able to intercept and execute.

#8 Molly Ferguson
Midfielder | 165cm | 20/04/2008

Stats: 19 disposals, 4 marks, 8 tackles, 1 clearance, 1 inside 50, 1 rebound 50

While Ferguson did spend a lot of time around the ball with just the one clearance, she was there adding value through her defensive pressure. She is tough and loves to compete for the hardball and will equally find space on the outside. With time and space she can hit some seriously nice passes with class, and it is about doing the same when the pressure is intensified.

#13 Jemma Foley
Defender | 166cm | 28/11/2007

Stats: 16 disposals, 4 marks, 7 tackles, 1 clearance, 1 inside 50, 6 rebound 50s

Kicked off her day with a an early run-down tackle in defensive 50 then immediately played on, sidestepping her opponent on the mark to kick down to the wing. She is not afraid to switch the ball and open up different angles, and defensively she was terrific. Generally used the ball well and was able to be a distributor from the back 50 to begin transitioning from defence into offence.

#20 Kaiya Hides
Midfielder/Wing | 166cm | 09/02/2006

Stats: 20 disposals, 2 marks, 5 tackles, 2 clearances, 6 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

Arguably the best Lion on the day, the over-ager reminded AFLW clubs which she can offer with great speed and tenacity. She can play inside or outside, and she ran down no less than three players in the match which was simply sensational. Naturally works hard behind the ball to mop up and find it across half-back as well, and is developing her execution under pressure and inside game at the moment.

#25 Harlee McIlwain
Tall Forward | 176cm | 07/04/2008

Stats: 12 disposals, 4 marks, 7 tackles, 2 inside 50s, 1 goal, 1 behind

McIlwain has had some huge goal performances in the past, but what you have to love about a tall forward when it doesn’t go their way is how they get involved. For the bottom-age Lions Academy member, she was willing to work up the ground and apply pressure, then dart back and be a target. Her tackling for a player of her size is outstanding so it shows she not only gets it done in the air, but at ground level too. One of many tall forwards likely to be near the top of the draft next year, she has so much upside for the future.

#26 Aiyana Pritchard
Tall Forward | 175cm | 21/12/2008

Stats: 15 disposals, 3 marks, 4 tackles, 1 clearance, 2 inside 50s, 1 behind

A high-upside tall who is only just a bottom-ager due to being born 10 days inside the end of year, she is still learning the fundamentals but when it all clicks will be something special. She was able to win the ball in the wet and puts metres on her opponents when she winds up, but just lacks that final polish. Had a few chances forward of centre, but never says die with a potential opportunity attempting to boot it out of the air inside 50 much to the surprise of everyone around her. It unfortunately ended up in the lap of the opposition, but Pritchard tries things outside the box.

Eastern Ranges:

#4 Asher Fearn-Wannan
Utility | 177cm | 14/12/2007

Stats: 17 disposals, 2 marks, 3 tackles, 12 hitouts, 5 inside 50s

There aren’t too many players who can start on a wing and then casually move into the ruck, but that is the case for Fearn-Wannan who has added extra versatility to her game since being a bottom-age rebounding defender last season. One of the more influential players in the game, Fearn-Wannan runs hard, creates opportunities for her teammates and can win the ball both in the air and at ground level.

#6 Tayla McMillan
Midfielder | 161cm | 25/05/2007

Stats: 24 disposals, 1 mark, 6 tackles, 8 clearances, 2 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

McMillan was a standout through the middle with her typical defensive pressure and clean hands around the stoppages a strong feature in the win, and then she was able to get back and help out behind the ball as well. The Eastern Ranges small has one of the more well-rounded profiles in this year’s draft, and while being a strong contested ball-winner is so silky with her execution and rarely plays a bad game.

#7 Bridie Neale
Wing/Forward | 166cm | 03/03/2008

Stats: 16 disposals, 1 mark, 4 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s, 2 goals

Pops up from time to time to have her moments, and against the Lions was able to kick goals at either end of the match. Her first was a classy finish on the run just a minute into the contest, with the other one coming from a clever snap off hands to seal the game in dying minutes of the match. She got caught holding the ball a couple of times, but attempted to break the lines and work hard down the field which was important in the conditions.

#10 Jordyn Allen
Defender | 165cm | 12/11/2007

Stats: 26 disposals, 4 marks, 4 tackles, 1 clearance, 2 inside 50s, 10 rebound 50s

In a throwback to her past seasons, Allen was outstanding at half-back and best on ground with her work mopping up in defence. A player with high footy IQ and decision making, she used her best traits to fill advantage, driving the ball in transition from the back 50 into attack. Her clean hands in the conditions were ridiculous and she hardly put a foot wrong all game. Her composure with ball in hand in the middle and not only used it herself, but directed her teammates where to run like an on-field coach. Set up Bamford for a goal in the fourth term as well.

#12 Emily Rankin
Midfielder/Forward | 166cm | 11/05/2008

Stats: 24 disposals, 1 mark, 5 tackles, 3 clearances, 2 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

A player who went about her business quietly racking up the touches, Rankin was involved consistently around the play often in pressure situations. She made a few mistakes by hand or foot due to the aforementioned pressure, but also did a lot right. She went in hard, laid some fierce tackles and was able to cover the ground well to win the ball in each third. Always seems to be involved in transitional plays even if it is only fleeting.

#35 Brylee Anderson
Midfielder/Defender | 172cm | 25/03/2008

Stats: 21 disposals, 1 mark, 7 tackles, 4 clearances, 7 rebound 50s

Spent a lot of time behind the ball like Allen to provide extra support and run and carry. In the wet conditions, either thumping it long, or running it out are the best options and Anderson is capable of both. She was not as effective by foot as she normally is, but that came with the mix of conditions and added aim to just clearing the ball at whatever cost. She took a great one-on-one mark against Edie Fraser who is rarely beaten which was a big moment in the fourth term, and was strong defensively all game.

#37 Josephine Bamford
Ruck/Forward | 182cm | 03/06/2007

Stats: 11 disposals, 3 marks, 2 tackles 16 hitouts, 1 clearance, 2 inside 50s, 2 goals 1 behind

Bamford is making the most of her time up forward when given the opportunity as Fearn-Wannan gives her a chop out. Already one of the most accomplished rucks in the draft crop, Bamford has shown this season she can be a threat up forward as well with multiple goals in two of her past three games now. Her first was a simple mismatch mark and set shot, but her second was a huge launch from the top of 50 that sailed home brilliantly.

Dandenong Stingrays 8.9 (57) def. Sandringham Dragons 7.11 (53)

Dandenong Stingrays:

#1 Evelyn Connolly
Forward/Midfielder | 169cm | 26/05/2007

Stats: 11 disposals, 3 marks, 1 tackle, 1 hitout, 1 clearance, 1 rebound 50, 2 goals, 3 behinds

It was a mixed bag in front of goal from the talented Connolly who made it 13 goals in four games with a fourth straight game of multiple majors. Quite easily could have had five goals – and four within her control, Connolly missed the open goal from a flying shot 35m out and then running into goal from 10m. She would love to have that time again given she has the talent to kick those blindfolded. Still, Connolly managed to convert two majors with a set shot and then a snap and looked dangerous inside 50 constantly and played well outside those couple of misses.

#7 Lillian Snow
Midfielder | 169cm | 10/07/2007

Stats: 23 disposals, 6 marks, 6 tackles, 10 clearances, 7 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

An enormous midfield performance from Snow who notched up double-digit clearances with extra minutes on the inside. Able to extract the ball time and time again, she had a couple of spins out of trouble to get onto her trusty left. When competing in marking contests, she quite often pulled it in, but if not brought it to ground and refused to be beaten. While at times she can dump it on the boot, her efficiency through the match was consistent, and of her six marks, four were contested. A first class display of inside ball-winning.

#11 Scarlett Marsh
Defender | 162cm | 03/04/2008

Stats: 16 disposals, 3 marks, 3 tackles, 1 clearance, 1 inside 50, 7 rebound 50

Really building into the season, the bottom-age defender is a smooth-moving small who uses the ball well and often intercepts before taking it down the field with important meterage. Able to hit targets off little time, Marsh is an outside-dominant player but has the skills and traits to really suit the role and she took her game from last week up another notch this week.

#12 Alice Cunnington
Forward | 174cm | 30/06/2008

Stats: 17 disposals, 3 marks, 3 tackles, 1 clearance, 1 inside 50, 3 goals, 2 behinds

Progressing as one of the most exciting players in next year’s draft, Cunnington had her fair share of chances on goal to finish with three majors from five chances. Her first came while off balance, and her second from a strong mark in the goalsquare, before her third was on the move off a handball receive early in the fourth term. She glides through stoppages and transitions well from midfield to forward, making good decisions with ball in hand and looking a threat both in the air and once the ball hits the deck.

#13 Indi Sherritt
Midfielder/Defender | 158cm | 02/06/2007

Stats: 14 disposals, 2 marks, 4 tackles, 3 clearances, 2 inside 50s, 3 rebound 50s

A versatile talent who continues to keep performing for the Stingrays in a multi-faceted way. In the past she has hit the scoreboard or set others up as she did with Cunnington during the second term, but in the game against the Dragons, was predominantly seen behind the ball rebounding from the defensive 50. Made a few mistakes by foot with the added pressure, but her defensive work was sound and she was there to be another option delivering out of the back 50.

Sandringham Dragons:

#2 Grace McIntyre
Wing | 172cm | 31/12/2008

Stats: 14 disposals, 3 marks, 2 tackles, 2 clearances, 6 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s, 1 behind

Was one of a number of players who had the chance to win the game when she streamed into goal in the final minute, but just missed with an unlucky shot. She was strong throughout the match though, providing copious amounts of run and carry, often bursting free of her direct opponent, and capable of using the hips to shrug tackles. Though the type to win it via handball and go for broke, she is competitive in the air and even clunked a contested mark.

#10 Macy Watkins
Midfielder | 172cm | 24/05/2007

Stats: 23 disposals 7 marks, 9 tackles, 5 clearances, 8 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50s

One of the most consistent players going around with an uncompromising attack on the ball, Watkins will always give 100 per cent effort. A team-first player who has been strong defensively since she started, her offensive impact is paying dividends by being more involved in attacking players. She took a few nice marks and was able to hit targets forward of centre, with her disposal also neat considering the contested nature of her game.

#38 Chloe Shipton
Midfielder | 164cm | 30/04/2008

Stats: 15 disposals, 7 tackles, 3 clearances, 3 inside 50s

Shipton was able to play through the midfield throughout the game and though others have bigger numbers, she played a key role with her athletic traits that stand out. Her precision has been her main setback to-date though hitting a target in the corridor late in the third term showed she has room for growth in that area. Her hands are clean and she is strong at the coalface. One for next year for sure.

#39 Chloe Williams
Tall Forward | 175cm | 23/04/2008

Stats: 17 disposals, 2 marks, 5 tackles, 1 clearance, 6 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50s, 1 goal, 1 behind

Speaking of next year, Williams is a promising talent in the making and was one of the standouts for the Dragons. Playing predominantly forward, Williams works hard up the ground to make an impact and then can bring her teammates into the game. An accurate kick and strong hands, Williams kicked a clever goal early in the second term to respond to a Stingrays major.

#44 Sienna Sharp
Tall Forward | 177cm | 30/09/2007

Stats: 17 disposals, 5 marks, 3 tackles, 1 hitout, 3 inside 50s, 1 goal, 1 behind

The captain looked dangerous inside 50 and posed a problem for the Stingrays defence, clunking five grabs and able to get involved outside the contest. At her best, Sharp can find the ball as well, and is coming off that enormous performance against Western Jets back in Round 2 where she had 34 disposals. Has hit hit the scoreboard in each of her past three games and has a booming left-foot kick, slamming home a major from 50m that bounced around the post favourably late in the second term.

#59 Maya Duane
Key Forward | 180cm | 16/03/2009

Stats: 8 disposals, 3 marks, 2 tackles, 1 inside 50, 3 goals, 2 behinds

After a solid debut game, Duane really announced herself as a top prospect in a couple of years with a three-goal performance against a quality outfit. Her first was a long-range effort from 45m that bounced up away from the defender on the goalline before slotting a ridiculous goal from the boundary a quarter later. She capped off her day with a clever soccer effort in the goalsquare, getting to the right spot at the right time.

Gold Coast Suns Academy 5.5 (35) def. Oakleigh Chargers 8.8 (56)

SUNS Academy:

#6 Sunny Lappin
Midfielder | 170cm | 28/11/2007

Stats: 26 disposals, 4 marks, 1 tackle, 6 clearances, 4 rebound 50s, 1 goal, 2 behinds

A lively performance from Lappin who has stood up across the three games thus far in the absence of injured teammates. She has added that outside run, but had more of an inside role in game three rather than just rotation, and she was able to get her hands on the ball consistently. While in the first two games her contested possession rate had been low due to her wing/forward role, she dissipated any doubts about her inside capabilities with a strong inside performance. Naturally her efficiency dropped, but she showed her trademark evasion and slick hands , while still getting forward to slot a goal two minutes into the fourth term pushing forward.

#10 Lily Moana
Midfielder | 165cm | 23/03/2010

Stats: 12 disposals, 3 marks, 6 tackles, 3 clearances, 3 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

A debut to remember for the triple bottom-ager who joined a rare club of players that young to compete in this age group. Not only did she compete, but came away as one of the more impressive players, not taking a backwards step and willing to run and gun wherever possible. She definitely felt the step up in speed – especially against Oakleigh – from the 16s carnival with her precision an area to develop, but she gains her efficiency from her metres gained and constantly cleared the danger zone going forward. Her tackling pressure was a highlight as well.

#13 Rhianna Ingram
Defender | 167cm | 20/10/2007

Stats: 23 disposals, 5 marks, 2 tackles, 2 clearances, 1 inside 50, 4 rebound 50s

Has found her home rebounding out of the back half and against the Chargers played a little higher to be involved. Though still taking some kickouts, she did win it outside the defensive 50 or around the stoppages in the back half of the ground, clearing the ball from danger. She looks composed with ball in hand, and though a tough fumbly at ground level, is reliable in the air and her follow-up work was sound too.

#20 Alannah Welsh
Forward | 169cm | 23/11/2007

Stats: 22 disposals, 3 marks, 4 tackles, 2 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 2 goals, 1 behind

The National Academy member kicked a couple of goals and looked lively in attack, working up the ground to get more touches than in previous games. Her natural forward craft and confidence on goal allows her to back herself at any opportunity and while finding better options is something to continue working on, she can have some brilliant moments. She kicked a great goal off a quick step early in the second term and nailed a classy finish on the run early in the fourth. Showed she can get amongst it in a higher forward role too in the game.

#31 Georja Davies
Midfielder/Defender | 185cm | 17/01/2007

Stats: 18 disposals, 6 marks, 3 tackles, 3 clearances, 4 rebound 50s

A strong performance from the top draft prospect who was competitive in the air and at ground level as she has shown throughout her junior career. What was impressive was the fact when Oakleigh was getting on top, Davies was thrown into defence to provide an obstacle and she stemmed the flow more there. Her positioning was appropriate and she could still provide her offensive run down the ground. Unfortunately for Davies, the match was her last for the Suns Academy, receiving a week’s suspension from a rough conduct charge on Isabelle Godfrey.

Oakleigh Chargers:

#2 Chloe Thorn
Defender | 167cm | 07/09/2007

Stats: 17 disposals, 5 tackles, 4 inside 50s, 6 rebound 50s

One of the best in the match with her work from defence providing a real thorn in the Suns’ attacking side. She intercepted consistently, mopped up well and used the ball efficiency on the turnover. Though in past matches she has often been deep in the backline, she pushed higher up to burst down the field and hit targets in transition. All 17 disposals were kicks and she had nine handball receives amongst them, though that was her game in a nutshell, taking it one and breaking lines.

#9 Chloe Bown
Midfielder | 173cm | 20/12/2007

Stats: 24 disposals, 5 marks, 10 tackles, 7 clearances, 7 inside 50s, 1 behind

Stood up through the midfield and put in another great shift for the Chargers, winning the ball at will and impacting both offensively and defensively. She is versatile in the way she wins the ball and can use either side of her body which helps. Had a long-range shot on goal that went wide, but also set up Martin on a couple of occasions and competed well at the coalface. Finished with the most touches from Oakleigh, which is never a good sign for the opposition.

#13 Zoe Curry
Midfielder | 172cm | 09/10/2008

Stats: 16 disposals, 2 marks, 6 tackles, 5 clearances, 7 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

Played her role perfectly switching back to the Chargers after representing the Giants Academy the past two weeks. Curry is a natural contested ball-winning midfielder who does her best work with a first-possession style where she can feed it out to her teammates. Capable of also breaking through tackles and bombing it long, she is hard to bring down due to her stronger frame. Not just a bigger body though, with Curry having some moves such as a clean pick up and spin out of traffic later in the third term.

#18 Bailee Martin
Forward | 176cm | 06/06/2008

Stats: 13 disposals, 4 marks, 5 tackles, 1 hitout, 1 inside 50, 4 goals, 3 behinds

Ensured her record of four or more goals in each of her Coates Talent League Girls games remained intact with one after the final siren. Finishing with seven scoring shots, she was once again so hard to stop with her breakaway speed and ability to get into marking positions. She is just as good at ground level and as mentioned last week, if she starts kicking the ones she’s missing, watch out.

#21 Amelie Gladman
Forward | 167cm | 16/06/2006

Stats: 14 disposals, 3 marks, 5 tackles, 3 clearances, 2 inside 50s, 1 goal, 2 behinds

Came in for some extra experience in the front half and played her role with the over-ager looking lively through the first quarter. She provided a leading target, spread the defenders well to create separation from Martin and then worked hard to lay some big tackles close to goal. Was quieter after half-time with just five handballs, but did get the ball rolling early for the Chargers.

#50 Cleo Barbakas
Key Position Utility | 182cm | 07/01/2009

Stats: 6 disposals, 1 tackle, 11 hitouts, 4 clearances, 3 inside 50s

Barbakas looms as a unique prospect, having played as a ruck, midfielder and then forward with great mobility around the ground and below her knees. She attempted to snap a goal out of the ruck at full forward, and spun out of traffic on another occasion. Won four clearances to go with her 11 hitouts and has a booming kick which will cause some headaches going forward.

Northern Knights 10.6 (66) def. Murray Bushrangers 2.2 (14)

Northern Knights:

#1 Olivia Gorman
Midfielder | 168cm | 25/10/2007

Stats: 22 disposals, 5 marks, 10 tackles, 9 clearances, 3 inside 50s, 1 goal, 1 behind

It was another big outing from the top-age midfielder who continues to press her case for a spot in the Metro side. Racking up nine clearances and 10 tackles showed her intent on the inside, but as so has been the case of the journey, she got forward to hit the scoreboard as well with a nice finish on the run during the second term. Is a natural contested ball-winning mid who can also influence on the outside as well.

#3 Marlo Graham
Midfielder/Forward | 163cm | 15/11/2007

Stats: 33 disposals, 2 marks, 5 tackles, 5 clearances, 6 inside 50s, 3 rebound 50s

Few midfielders are in better form than Graham who is having a remarkable year in Knights colours. She just keeps finding the footy and making things happen with an elite run-down tackle early in the first term setting the tone for her side. Her rare mistake was trying to do a little too much on the wing sidestepping multiple opponents and eventually getting caught, but that was a rarity with Graham dancing around Bushrangers all day. Her combination sidestep and fend-off was a delight and she worked hard forward as well to apply pressure in there. Had one of the more complete games across the weekend and another best on ground performance.

#7 Scarlett Johnson
Wing | 175cm | 26/11/2007

Stats: 20 disposals, 4 marks, 7 tackles, 4 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 1 goal

Johnson started on a wing and continued her strong form throughout the 2025 season by impacting offensively and defensively. She took a couple of contested marks, then laid follow-up tackles when she didn’t win it. One of her marks resulted in a set shot goal during the third term and her kicking as a whole was a delight. Has plenty of weapons and for a player of her size, Johnson is more than capable of playing across all three lines.

#8 Isobella Hishongwa-Gibb
Ruck/Defender | 181cm | 27/07/2007

Stats: 13 disposals, 4 marks, 4 tackles, 35 hitouts, 1 inside 50, 1 rebound 50

Took control of the ruck for another week and then rested in defence where she even spent some time on Bell. Her athleticism allows her to play on a variety of opponents, and she was reliable in getting behind the ball and thwarting opposition attacks. Hishongwa-Gibb is known for her aerial tap work, but her ground level clean hands were just as impressive and she stood out in the win.

#23 Phoebe Hargreaves
Forward | 161cm | 15/07/2007

Stats: 12 disposals, 3 marks, 2 tackles, 1 inside 50, 2 goals, 1 behind

The Knights skipper was back in the goalkickers books with a couple of goals to add to her three from the win over Bendigo in Round 3. Hargreaves’ first encounter was a sublime finish off a handball receive which is her bread and butter, then she converted a set shot from a tight angle in the second term after reading the ball well in flight to mark in the pocket.

Murray Bushrangers:

#1 Skylah McPherson
Midfielder | 169cm | 22/01/2008

Stats: 21 disposals, 1 mark, 8 tackles, 1 clearance, 3 inside 50s

An out of the box performance from McPherson who has been on the precipice of delivering a big game in her first three outings, but her Round 5 game was the best of the lot. She was fierce at ground level with her tackling and she moved well around the stoppage, with the left-footer able to put the ball inside 50 on a few occasions. Refining that precision out of the stoppage is an area for improvement, but as a whole she looked a promising talent.

#10 Sophia Green
Defender/Midfielder | 169cm | 22/11/2008

Stats: 22 disposals, 1 mark, 8 tackles, 1 clearance, 2 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

Working hard in transition from start to finish, Green always brings the defensive intensity which showed in her tackling pressure. She scrapped hard at ground level and tried to create some run from defence. She laid a great run-down tackle in the middle, midway through the final term and never gave up trying even when the game was done and dusted. One of the better Bushrangers in the match.

#15 Nikhita Spiteri
Midfielder/Forward | 171cm | 20/07/2007

Stats: 22 disposals, 4 marks, 5 tackles, 5 clearances, 5 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

A consistent and honest ball-winner whose defensive traits come to the fore in contested games. She did her best to win it at the coalface and in general play to drive the ball forward at all costs. She got involved in the odd one-two or receiving it out of the stoppage and even clunked a contested mark which was an improvement for her preseason. Can be a touch cleaner at ground level at times, but across the course of the four quarters, was again one of Murray’s best.

#24 Rose Bell
Forward/Defender | 170cm | 18/03/2008

Stats: 12 disposals, 4 marks, 3 tackles, 2 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s, 1 goal

Really did not get many looks at it forward, but still kicked an early goal which was the first one for the game after holding her position in the goalsquare all alone. Though she almost fumbled it, had enough time to compose herself and put it on the boot. From the second term onwards she was moved into defence to stem the flow and she did a pretty good job with her aerial competitiveness and booming kick. Was not going to add to many goals to her season tally from full-back, but reminded clubs of her versatility.

Geelong Falcons 4.10 (34) def. by Gippsland Power 8.3 (51)

Geelong Falcons:

#9 Georgia Tyrrell
Midfielder | 168cm | 04/08/2007

Stats: 20 disposals, 1 mark, 16 tackles, 4 clearances, 7 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 1 behind

Geelong’s skipper is a natural born leader who does so by example with her tackling pressure and unrelenting desire around the contest. Laying a ridiculous 16 tackles, she refused to give the Power midfield and inch, and still won her fair share of the ball going forward. The main knock on Tyrrell’s game is her speed and she did get caught once and under pressure a few times, but fortunately she thrives under pressure and is able to pump the ball forward.

#12 Meg Lappin
Forward/Ruck | 180cm | 21/09/2007

Stats: 12 disposals, 2 marks, 1 tackle, 7 hitouts, 1 clearance, 4 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

The eligible Brisbane father-daughter prospect continues to show some signs here or there, particularly with her athleticism. Her sidestep for a 180cm player is outstanding and she can fly for her marks even if she does not hold onto all of them. Rotating between attack and the ruck, she moves well and can set up scoring chances going forward or burst out of a ruck stoppage.

#20 Grace Carroll
Forward | 168cm | 20/04/2008

Stats: 9 disposals, 4 marks, 4 tackles, 1 clearance, 3 inside 50s, 1 goal, 1 behind

It was only the one goal this week, but the bottom-aged Carroll kicked a nice early goal off the left under pressure while leaning back in the pocket. She shows some great footy smarts and knows where and when to lead, as well as applying pressure at ground level. An all-round forward, it will be fascinating to see how she progresses throughout the course of the 2025 season.

#24 Alana Mulvahil
Midfielder/Forward | 163cm | 16/02/2007

Stats: 16 disposals, 3 marks, 5 tackles, 3 clearances, 2 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 1 behind

Able to contribute through the middle alongside Tyrrell and Huxtable, Mulvahil takes some of that inside ball-winning pressure off them. Generally a neat user of the ball who did well by hand to keep it moving usually through a one-two or extracting it to a teammate in space, Mulvahil held her own throughout the contest. She can go forward and be an option as well.

#38 Stella Huxtable
Midfielder/Forward | 172cm | 22/12/2007

Stats: 35 disposals, 8 marks, 3 tackles, 5 clearances, 2 inside 50s, 5 rebound 50s, 1 goal, 2 behinds

It was a massive day out for Huxtable who won seven hardball gets and clunked three contested marks. She is so strong overhead and competes as well as anyone at ground level, using her bigger frame to win the ball. Huxtable is a viable forward option as she has shown in the past, and really should have had at least two goals but missed one she would normally kick late. in the match, Her one goal was a beauty with a major on the run from 35m. Showed nice vision through traffic.

Gippsland Power:

#10 Grace Dillow
Midfielder/Forward | 167cm | 03/06/2008

Stats: 14 disposals, 9 tackles, 4 clearances, 6 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

Named Gippsland’s best by the coaches in an even team performance and it is easy to see why. She uses the ball well, has some great athletic traits, but also lays copious amounts of tackles. Her ability to cleanly take the ball at ground level and spin out of trouble before delivering forward is a great trademark of hers, and she mostly won her touches under immense pressure so was forced to do it on a couple of occasions. Can get forward and be a goalscoring threat, but was mostly the one distributing inside 50 which is what the Power would love to see.

#24 Baia Pugh
Forward | 169cm | 28/03/2007

Stats: 12 disposals, 3 marks, 2 tackles, 2 clearances, 5 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 2 goals

The only multiple goalkicker on the day, Pugh has got better with each passing game after starting to show some promising signs in Round 4 against the Jets. That was followed up by her two-goal effort on the weekend including an early one on and then juggling it one metre out before slotting the easy major. A lively player in the forward half.

#26 Ava Deszcz
Forward/Midfielder | 168cm | 21/04/2008

Stats: 13 disposals, 3 marks, 1 clearance, 6 inside 50s, 3 behinds

After five goals last week, Deszcz’s radar was not quite there as her set shots kept getting caught in the breeze. She still presented as a target inside 50, then when she went into the middle, won a nice clearance where she burst away from the middle and followed up nicely at half-forward. Got beaten for speed at one stage in the game deep inside 50 but applied pressure to her opponent which forced a kick out on the full.

#29 Rebecca Fitzpatrick
Forward/Midfielder | 172cm | 31/01/2007

Stats: 18 disposals, 1 mark, 3 tackles, 1 clearance, 2 inside 50s, 4 rebound 50s, 1 goal

Put in a captain’s shift for the Power and though she only won the one clearance, was a clean and effective ball user throughout the contest. She kicked a nice goal from congestion in the pocket on the edge of three quarter time, and hardly put a foot wrong all game. Can win the ball inside or outside, and never takes a backwards step. Her best game from her three thus far.

#32 Abby Hobson
Forward | 174cm | 11/09/2007

Stats: 13 disposals, 9 marks, 2 tackles, 1 clearance, 2 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s, 1 goal

Providing a marking target around the ground but particularly in the front half where she was able to nail a set shot from a tight angle on the boundary during the third term. Bounced back from a quiet first half (four disposals) to have nine and six marks in the second half, asserting her influence. She missed a checkside shot on goal that sailed out on the full but was a difficult player to contain all game with her aerial prowess.

#36 Chelsea Sutton
Midfielder/Forward | 169cm | 16/11/2007

Stats: 20 disposals, 3 marks, 5 tackles, 6 clearances, 2 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 1 goal

Though her midfield craft is what stood out in the match, Sutton iced the game with a nice goal early in the fourth term. When it came off hands in a one-on-one, Sutton picked it up and slammed it on the boot in the goalsquare after her opponent dropped the mark. Staying alert and putting pressure on her direct opponent forced that mistake and earned her a goal, with her pressure also high when on-ball.