THE REGULAR Coates Talent League Girls season is over with eight teams advancing through to the finals series. We took a look across the last six matches prior to the post-season action with plenty of players putting in big individual performances.

>> ROUND 18: Round wrap | Player of the Week | Team of the Week

Northern Knights:

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

Stats: 29 disposals, 4 marks, 7 tackles, 6 clearances, 7 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

Gorman has been among the most consistent players in the second half of the Coates Talent League Girls season, racking up some serious numbers and having an impact not just around the ball but across the ground. She has been efficient with her ball use, has great stoppage IQ and can rest forward where, even if she does not hit the scoreboard herself, can set her teammates up.

#2 Maddison Meagher
Wing/Defender | 163cm | 02/08/2008

Stats: 11 disposals, 1 tackle, 6 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

A high impact-per-possession talent, Meagher’s metres gained for her side is enormous and thought the final execution can be tidied up at times, she set up an early goal to Johnson, and gained so much distance that it constantly put the Cannons’ defence on the back foot. A highly offensive player who breaks lines consistently.

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

Stats: 21 disposals, 10 marks, 5 tackles, 1 clearance, 7 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 4 goals, 1 behind

Starting forward and inflicting maximum damage like in her previous seasons, Johnson still rolled onto a wing quite often and became a facilitator going forward. Her four goals were reward for hard running, including a couple of classy majors on the move, with back-to-back majors on the edge of three quarter time. While she did kick her fourth with a brilliant strike, Johnson had a couple touched or intercepted on the line, with six goals right there for the taking with a bit of luck. Our Rookie Me Central Player of the Week for Round 18.

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

Stats: 17 disposals, 6 marks, 2 tackles, 22 hitouts, 2 clearances, 3 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

Took control through the ruck with her craft on full display, getting first hands to it and enabling her midfielders to go to work. Her aerial ability has continued to get better and better as the year went on, clunking half a dozen marks and getting more involved all around the ground. One of the standout rucks in the competition once again, and has upside for the future.

#19 Olivia Jesser
Forward | 168cm | 04/01/2007

Stats: 10 disposals, 5 marks, 6 tackles, 1 inside 50, 2 goals, 1 behind

Capitalised on her chances inside 50, the Vic Metro representative kicked a major from the goalsquare off the back of hard running in the first term, then converted a set shot after a great tackle and subsequent holding the ball free kick in the second. Though a little quieter after half-time, Jesser made her mark on the game as that medium-sized target inside 50.

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

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

Set the tone early with a great run-down tackle on Metro teammate Baker-West in the opening term, and her defensive pressure was what set her apart often. She worked hard to get into space and used the ball efficiently more often than not. Missed a couple of potential chances while under pressure, but did her best work further afield then darting back.

Calder Cannons:

#1 Charli Calleia
Defender | 169cm | 28/10/2008

Stats: 16 disposals, 3 marks, 4 tackles, 1 inside 50, 7 rebound 50s

A rock solid player in the defensive 50 for the Cannons, Calleia was again composed with ball in hand and courageous to put her body on the line at times. She worked up the ground to have that offensive approach, but remained accountable at the same time. Good overhead and fierce at ground level, one who could further develop in 2026.

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

Stats: 31 disposals, 4 marks, 8 tackles, 7 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 3 rebound 50s, 2 behinds

Baker-West just beat the clock in terms of the season ending having a series of frustrating injuries all throughout 2025. Fortunately for the Vic Metro talent and potential top 10 pick, Baker-West got back for Calder’s final game of the year. She racked up the ball as expected, and while her efficiency was down, a little rust was to be expected. Brought the heat and competed well for four quarters.

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

Stats: 16 disposals, 3 marks, 4 tackles, 3 clearances, 1 rebound 50, 2 goals, 1 behind

Named Calder’s best and it was hard to argue as she got involved in a lot across the entire ground. She did have a forgettable moment early when dropping a tricky mark in the goalsquare then having a fresh airey trying to soccer it home. She would work into the game and kick two goals including a dribbler and classy finish both near the ends of the second and third terms. Has some nice traits.

Dandenong Stingrays:

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

Stats: 16 disposals, 4 marks, 4 tackles, 3 clearances, 1 inside 50, 2 goals, 3 behinds

The crafty Dandenong forward was lively in the front half, finishing with a couple of majors and a few ‘almost’ chances. She reads the ball in flight so well, has a deceptive burst that can make up ground quickly, and of course boasts that fierce aggression at ground level. Can be a human highlight reel even if she makes some mistakes, but is one of the more exciting players going around.

#5 Mizuki Brothwell
Defender/Forward | 175cm | 22/10/2007

Stats: 16 disposals, 2 tackles, 1 inside 50, 1 rebound 50, 1 goal, 1 behind

Got the opportunity forward with the game in Dandenong’s keeping, and after some near chances scored one off a quick snap to boot her first Coates Talent League goal. When in defence she was able to dispose of the ball consistently when under pressure, and although she did not get a lot of space – 10 handballs to six kicks as a usually kick-dominant player – Brothwell was a key link in the transitional change from defence to offence.

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

Stats: 23 disposals, 7 marks, 5 tackles, 2 clearances, 6 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

Another strong performance from the Vic Country talent who showed a nice balance of ground level and aerial strength. She rotated between midfield and attack once more, and showed some nice footy smarts by getting to the right spots early. She generally used the ball well and did a little bit of everything with her team-first play evident in the contest. Clunked a strong contested mark midway through the second term to pump it deep inside 50.

#8 Ruby Geurts
Forward | 171cm | 17/09/2008

Stats: 14 disposals, 5 marks, 1 tackle, 1 inside 50, 2 goals, 1 behind

Looked impressive up forward as that medium-tall marking target boasting some eye-catching athleticism. Geurts kicked a couple of goals herself during the second and third goals, while also setting up teammates in better positions. Clunked one contested mark from her five chances, and ran at a high efficiency to boot. Building as another Stingrays prospect for next year.

#9 Nalu Brothwell
Forward | 174cm | 22/10/2007

Stats: 22 disposals, 2 marks, 1 tackle, 1 clearance, 3 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 1 goal, 4 behinds

Could have been an enormous day from Brothwell who joined her sister as a goalkicker, but also booted four behinds with a couple of misses when under pressure. She got involved consistently, worked up the ground when required and ran hard for four quarters. Despite the inefficiency in front of goal, Brothwell still finished as one of the better Stingrays in the win.

#10 Matilda Argus
Midfielder/Defender | 166cm | 08/01/2007

Stats: 21 disposals, 3 marks, 6 tackles, 3 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 1 goal, 1 behind

A real eye-catcher for Dandenong, Argus’ run-and-gun attitude either out of the stoppage or off half-back has been a delight in the second half of the season. She is a key architect in Dandenong’s ball movement, and competes overhead as well as ground level. Her best work is done when she can run by for the handball receive or work into space, giving her time to put extra speed on the ball and catch the opposition defence off guard.

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

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

It’s no secret that Marsh’s disposal is considered amongst the best going around, and she ran at a high efficiency once again. Aggressive running off half-back, she not only uses the ball well but also takes grass which can prove ultra-damaging to the opposition team. She can make decisions quickly, and as she showed on numerous occasions, is clean and capable of using either side of her body.

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

Stats: 19 disposals, 4 marks, 6 tackles, 3 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 1 goal, 1 behind

A big year from the bottom-aged Cunnington who looms as the top Stingray for 2026 in a fairly stacked field of options. Able to play on any line, Cunnington started forward then moved on-ball where she was able to use a nice turn of pace and ability to find space in order to get her side on top. A lovely user of the ball, Cunnington set up a goal to Geurts with a lovely weighted kick before her teammate returned the favour moments later in the fourth term and Cunnington soccered home a major.

#15 Charlotte Gilmore
Wing | 172cm | 21/12/2007

Stats: 18 disposals, 1 mark, 4 tackles, 2 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 2 goals, 1 behind

Really enjoying a consistent second half of the season, Gilmore has been a key player off a wing for the Stingrays, able to cover in defence, while also getting forward and on the weekend, hit the scoreboard. Gilmore booted two goal in a three-minute second quarter purple patch to really give her side some breathing space. She was generally effective and looked to run by for handball receives or get into space to be the facilitator for the Stingrays.

Gippsland Power:

#9 Lily Milner
Forward/Midfielder | 172cm | 25/01/2008

Stats: 21 disposals, 2 marks, 5 tackles, 4 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 4 rebound 50s

Gippsland’s best player in the loss, Milner was clever around the stoppages and able to just get boot to ball time and time again. In certain moments she made some errors by foot under pressure, but with any time or space, Milner is able to do damage. Her one-two connections out of the middle looked promising, and she understands the game exceptionally well.

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

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

Predominantly played through the midfield but did work back behind the ball to lend support, particularly when her side was under siege. Has that composure with ball in hand, and she excels with her decision making and vision. Though Dillow has that classy element to her game, the bottom-age Vic Country representative is also tough, laying a number of strong tackles.

#19 Ella Stoddart
Defender/Forward | 174cm | 30/01/2007

Stats: 18 disposals, 4 marks, 4 tackles, 1 clearance, 3 rebound 50s, 2 goals

The National Academy member started in defence then was thrown forward where she filled her boots with two late goals. Her second and third efforts working up the ground from defence throughout the match were strong, and she found her fair share of the ball in the defensive half. Tried to add some quick transition from the back 50 to get the ball into a scoring position.

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

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

Started in defence and rotated on-ball, the Power captain and utility was able to put her body on the line and show courage on numerous occasions. She actually won the first centre clearance in quarter two, then pushed forward to win it just inside 50 and kick deep close to goal. Is comfortable in one-on-one marking contests, and does not take a backwards step from a ground ball competition as well.

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

Stats: 12 disposals, 4 marks, 5 tackles, 1 inside 50, 1 rebound 50, 1 goal

The marking target in the front half of the ground, Hobson kicked a goal midway through the first term with a clever snap which was the first of the game. After that the going was tough, but Hobson worked up to half-back at times and got involved, even opposing Gilmore on a wing. A great versatile option who has mostly played forward, but worked back when on a wing to intercept in the defensive goalsquare during the final term.

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

Stats: 16 disposals, 1 mark, 4 tackles, 2 clearances, 3 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

Showed strength around the ground both at the coalface and in space, competing well one-on-one. Her two-way running was impactful in being able to win the ball back for her side, and while she has had bigger games production-wise, Sutton played her role and even cleared the ball from the back 50 when dropping behind the play midway through the fourth term.

Bendigo Pioneers:

#2 Olivia Lacy
Utility | 169cm | 15/06/2007

Stats: 21 disposals, 7 marks, 9 tackles, 1 clearance, 4 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 1 goal, 1 behind

The tough ball-winner was again at the forefront leading by example in most facets. Be it going in and doing the team things with bone-crunching tackles or reading the play well and taking a number of good marks all over the ground, Lacy spent more time forward to rest and have an impact there. Using the ball exceptionally well, she had a rare miss from a shot straight in front, but did kick a crucial goal right on the three quarter time siren to cut the deficit to just five points at the final break.

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

Stats: 11 disposals, 5 marks, 2 tackles, 11 hitouts, 2 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s, 1 behind

Starting in the ruck then rotating forward, Bibby showed strong hands and a determination to provide a target both inside 50 and around the ground. She was a not a massive ball-winner, but her presence in aerial situations catches the eye, and having now played a few consistent games returning from injury, has suggested she has further improvement left in her as a genuine key position utility.

#11 Mia Clark
Forward | 166cm | 05/07/2009

Stats: 16 disposals, 3 marks, 1 tackle, 4 inside 50s, 1 goal, 2 behinds

The double bottom-age forward provided some highlights in the front half of the ground with a nice sidestep and knack to kick off either side of her body. Clark’s finish on goal off a step from a snap late in the match was fantastic, as was her leading patterns and ability to win the ball in a manner of ways. Will be one with future growth going forward.

#12 Issy Boulton
Defender/Midfielder | 162cm | 21/05/2007

Stats: 37 disposals, 5 marks, 5 tackles, 4 clearances, 3 inside 50s, 9 rebound 50s

Had the ball on a string all day and racked it up with ease. She was often mopping up behind the ball, then running hard to win repeat possessions within a stoppage. Her ability to kick long and then follow-up was noticeable, and while she won quite a lot of disposals from kickouts due to the Rebels’ inaccuracy, she still worked hard to get into space and link up effectively with teammates when exiting the defensive 50.

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

Stats: 31 disposals, 9 marks, 4 tackles, 6 clearances, 5 inside 50s, 1 goal, 2 behinds

Given the lower player availability with just one on the bench, the Pioneers rotated their midfield heavily forward, so Nihill started out of the goalsquare. She took until the third term to nail a crucial goal and cut the deficit back to 19 points, which was the start of the home side’s comeback. At times she can turn the ball over, but is technically sound and her vision and work rate into space is fantastic so it is just tidying up the final execution. Even started on a wing in the fourth term such was her versatility.

#23 Ella Jeffrey
Defender | 167cm | 09/08/2007

Stats: 22 disposals, 8 marks, 5 tackles, 1 clearance, 9 rebound 50s

While Tessa Skipper kicked the match-winner, it was Jeffrey’s proactiveness that set up the goal. She won it at half-forward and desperately got boot to ball on the outside to put it into the leading lane where Skipper marked in front and converted. Her hard running and competitive nature was. consistent throughout the contest, and she continually looked to link up, working well with the likes of Boulton and Lacy.

GWV Rebels:

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

Stats: 27 disposals, 5 marks, 2 tackles, 4 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50, 1 behind

The over-ager went about her business as per usual, finding the ball across the ground and being the most prolific Rebel on the day. She linked up through midfield and worked hard to get involved behind the ball too, while darting forward to. even had a shot on goal that missed. Her work rate and game understanding really stood out, with Davies’ VFLW experience coming to the fore.

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

Stats: 17 disposals, 6 marks, 4 tackles, 1 clearance, 4 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s, 1 goal, 2 behinds

The powerful midfielder/forward was not able to influence as much around the stoppages as usual, but seemed to impact in transition be it with the ball or via turnover. She applied great defensive pressure around the ground, kicked a nice running goal late in the second term and almost had another major a minute later that just missed. Spent a lot of time inside 50 when the Pioneers had the ball up the other end in the second half, but when it did go near her, she showed great one-on-one ability.

#9 Jovie Skewes-Clinton
Forward/Defender I 176cm I 15/11/2007

Stats: 14 disposals, 6 marks, 5 tackles, 1 clearance, 2 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s, 1 goal, 1 behind

The versatile utility played three quarters in attack and then went back into defence as the Pioneers were charging home. Though ultimately she was unable to stop them getting over the line, she took a number of strong intercept marks, and applied great pressure to lock the ball up and even win a holding the ball free kick. When forward, the Vic Country representative looked lively, and even kicked the first goal of the game with a classy finish off a turnover chain.

#15 Elsie Conroy
Defender | 172cm | 19/08/2007

Stats: 18 disposals, 3 marks, 4 tackles, 3 inside 50s, 7 rebound 50s

Provided a reliable force in the back 50, and after not playing since Round 13, looked to settle back into defence with ease. Positioned herself well one-on-one winning a holding free in the early moments of the match, and looked to clear the ball time and time again. While Conroy still looked a little rusty – turning the ball over a few times – it was usually well outside defensive 50. Read the play well and was able to get into intercepting positions.

Oakleigh Chargers:

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

Stats: 18 disposals, 3 marks, 5 tackles, 3 clearances, 2 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

After spending recent weeks rotating forward, Thorn was back in her more familiar behind the ball role, before rotating into the middle. Thorn is a clean ball user and able to effectively win it off the deck and find the right option, while giving as good as she gets from a tackling perspective. Slick by hand with an elite tank, Thorn is capable of running all day and gaining repeat possessions within a chain.

#4 Zara Neuwirth
Key Defender | 183cm | 06/07/2007

Stats: 20 disposals, 3 marks, 5 tackles, 10 rebound 50s

It is not too often you see Neuwirth as one of the top ball-winners in the match, but that was exactly the case for the key defender who got ultra-proactive out of the back 50 to not only intercept, but be an option on transition to thump the ball forward. While her aerial work is a major strength, Neuwirth’s defensive pressure at ground level was another highlight, laying some big tackles. Positioned herself in the defensive 50 consistently.

#5 Isabelle Godfrey
Wing | 162cm | 11/08/2008

Stats: 20 disposals, 6 marks, 1 tackle, 6 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

The hard-running wing made an early statement with a clever snap out of traffic to hit Martin on the lead, and continued to present all across the ground with some eye-catching moments. Not afraid to take the game on – such as a risky sidestep around the ultra-athletic Fearn-Wannan, Godfrey provided a switch option as well as an intercepting force, and finished as one of the most consistent Chargers on the day.

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

Stats: 17 disposals, 5 marks, 1 tackle, 3 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

A relatively quiet day by Bown’s lofty standards, with Eastern well aware of how important it was to keep close tabs on the Vic Metro MVP around stoppages. Not recording a clearance – which would be a huge win for the Ranges – Bown still had her moments of brilliance working hard in transition. She was often under pressure, but still pumped the ball forward and provided a target across the ground.

#11 Isabella Mazzei
Midfielder | 170cm | 06/06/2008

Stats: 22 disposals, 11 tackles, 4 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

Mazzei lead from the front for defensive pressure and work rate, getting into space and benefiting form the attention going to Bown. She had a number of brilliant run-down tackles, forcing turnovers or free kicks, and was quick and clean by hand under pressure or in space when looking to overlap. Seemed to be involved in most passages of play going route one down the middle, and did get into the forward half to put the pill into scoring positions.

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

Stats: 9 disposals, 4 marks, 1 tackle, 2 inside 50s, 3 goals

Despite having limited opportunities, the competition leading goalkicker still managed three goals in the win to keep her sensational record of three goals minimum in every Coates Talent League Girls game this season. While it was a relatively quiet first half other than her opening goal, she looked like breaking the match open with a free kick and set shot conversion two minutes into the third. She kicked a third six minutes later, and then after not seeing it, pushed up the ground to make a point of difference on a wing.

#32 Scarlett Bown
Tall Forward | 178cm | 22/09/2009

Stats: 10 disposals, 5 marks, 3 inside 50s, 1 goal, 1 behind

The younger of the Bown siblings got on the board in the first term following front-on contact, and though she had limited chances after that, still presented as a marking target both inside 50 and pushing up the ground. Given her size and athleticism, she poses problems for any opposition even when not within scoring range.

Eastern Ranges:

#2 Zoe Vozzo
Forward | 165cm | 06/02/2007

Stats: 8 disposals, 4 tackles, 1 inside 50, 2 goals, 1 behind

The smart Vic Metro forward was able to kick a couple of majors in the game, soccering home an early one and then getting a second goal bouncing home five minutes into the third term to give Eastern a four-goal lead. A nice ball user and one with great footy smarts, Vozzo looked lively when it was in her zone.

#3 Scout Semple
Forward/Midfielder | 163cm | 03/10/2008

Stats: 13 disposals, 3 marks, 3 tackles, 4 clearances, 5 inside 50s

Provided a target on the outside and added an extra number around the stoppages at times, Semple linked up nicely between the midfield and forwardlines. Her spread and impact with ball in hand was evident, and thought she did not necessarily have a heap of it, was able to use smart decision making ability to find better options within scoring range such as Neale late in the first term.

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

Stats: 13 disposals, 5 marks, 3 tackles, 3 hitouts, 3 inside 50s

Like Semple and Neale, Fearn-Wannan was another who was able to win the ball and keep it moving in transition. Not afraid to drop back and then take off, the hard-running Vic Metro representative showed great strength in the air and an ability to burst away to gain time and swing onto her trusty left foot. Another solid game for the winger.

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

Stats: 14 disposals, 4 marks, 3 tackles, 1 clearance, 8 inside 50s, 1 goal

Bottom-ager Neale had a big game that was far more influential than her statistics might suggest. She kept bobbing up all over the field, kicking a goal after marking in space later in the third term. Neale would often intercept or be an option between the arcs, then send the ball forward to a scoring position. A highlight of her game was a brilliant tackle early on where she pinned the one arm. A name to remember for next year.

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

Stats: 20 disposals, 3 marks, 1 tackle, 3 clearances, 6 inside 50s, 4 rebound 50s, 2 goals, 2 behinds

Allen was the firestarter with two goals in the first 21 minutes, both from open play where she ran in and finished with clash. Could have kicked a third in the first half had it not bounced up one metre out from the goalline, but even aside from her scoreboard impact, provided the skill and decision making that she has shown throughout her junior career. Set up a number of scoring opportunities with sizzling passes inside 50. Was quieter in the second half with just five disposals, but had done her job and let others take over.

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

Stats: 31 disposals, 4 marks, 5 tackles, 4 clearances, 5 inside 50s, 3 rebound 50s

Consistently getting her hands on the ball, Rankin was the top four-quarter player throughout the game. She won the inside ball, spread to the outside, competed at ground level or in the air, and was able to be both a first and second possession winner out of congestion. A lot of Rankin’s work is usually done in traffic, but she got into space at times and influenced thanks to her clean hands and vision.

#17 Lara Williams
Defender | 169cm | 29/08/2008

Stats: 10 disposals, 4 marks, 1 tackle, 2 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

Has been reborn as a defender in the second half of this season, and used her run and skills out of the back half to influence the game. Her hands overhead were reliable and despite often being under immense heat, she was able to dispose of the ball cleanly, or clear the immediate danger. Worked up the ground to be an option as well and get the next touch from the defensive 50 exit.

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

Stats: 16 disposals, 12 tackles, 7 clearances, 1 inside 50, 1 rebound 50

Anderson had a great battle with Bown throughout the game and while both were below their usual production numbers, Anderson earned the chocolates with her terrific defensive pressure and ability to win the ball at the source consistently. The bottom-ager won 16 contested possessions from her 18, and just about every touch came with a player hanging off her or about to hang off her. Had no time or space, but set up her teammates to run and carry.

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

Stats: 18 disposals, 3 marks, 9 tackles, 14 hitouts, 2 clearances, 5 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s, 2 behinds

Looked good through the ruck, and while Jessica Owen had the height advantage, Bamford did well in getting around and being that ‘fourth midfielder’ across the ground. She might have only won the 14 hitouts, but her second and third efforts – as emphasised by her nine tackles – were as strong as ever, and she was able to set up her teammates forward of centre. Her elite run-down tackle on Ava Philpin seven minutes into the fourth term was huge in the context of the game.

Murray Bushrangers:

#3 Rain Dodd
Defender | 165cm | 13/01/2007

Stats: 11 disposals, 4 marks, 1 tackle, 1 rebound 50

The Vic Country skipper might not have won a stack of the ball, but provided her usual aggressive running out of defence. A neat user whose second and third efforts stood out, Dodd worked up the ground to the wing at times and got involved. While she was only credited with one tackle, she still pressure well and did a lot of nice offensive things from half-back.

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

Stats: 26 disposals, 4 marks, 8 tackles, 2 clearances, 1 inside 50, 3 rebound 50s

The bottom-age Vic Country representative started behind the ball and then moved on-ball at different points, covering the ground well and getting her hands to it consistently. She can be a little hit or miss with her efficiency – particularly under pressure – but used both sides of her body and looked to open up the game with some risky kicks. Green’s defensive pressure is always top notch.

#14 Ellie Hall
Midfielder | 174cm | 07/07/2006

Stats: 30 disposals, 4 marks, 8 tackles, 4 clearances, 9 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

Found plenty of the ball once again with another 30-disposal performance for the Bushrangers. While she did get pinged and gave away a number of free kicks, Hall continued to try powering away from stoppages and releasing by hand or foot once she had found the best option. Racking up the pill with ease, Hall continually presents and ran all day to find it in each third of the ground, particularly pumping the ball forward.

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

Stats: 23 disposals, 6 marks, 6 tackles, 2 clearances, 3 inside 50s

Spiteri is another Bushranger who brings 100 per cent effort to every game she plays, and rotated between half-forward and midfield to find the ball. Strong overhead with a fierce defensive intent, Spiteri consistently got involved in transition and even utilised her non-dominant left foot when caught on that side. Her polish is always an area of improvement, but her running capacity, courage and defensive traits are outstanding.

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

Stats: 22 disposals, 6 marks, 5 tackles, 1 inside 50, 10 rebound 50s

Arguably best on ground, Bell was phenomenal behind the ball and certainly saved a lot of potential goals. Mopping up in the back 50 or intercepting a forward foray, Bell utilised her penetrating right boot to inflict maximum damage on the opposition. Bell attacks the contest – both aerially and at ground level – like a bull at a gate and never takes a backwards step. Linked up most plays that started in defence.

Geelong Falcons:

#5 Addison Baars
Defender | 163cm | 17/10/2007

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

The top-ager has some of those draftable qualities that catch the eye with her work out of the back half seeing some nice moves. Able to change direction on a dime with an explosive first few steps, Baars looks to create run and carry via one-twos or follow-up work down the ground. The Falcons utility takes grass, is not afraid to take the game on and will apply pressure to the opposition as well, showcasing as a nice two-way runner.

#8 Chloe Bryant
Defender/Midfielder | 165cm | 12/09/2006

Stats: 21 disposals, 1 mark, 6 tackles, 1 clearance, 3 inside 50s, 4 rebound 50s

A valuable player to the Falcons’ lineup since coming back from her VFLW duties, Bryant is another player who moves on a dime and can ankle break opponents with ease. She rotated on-ball at times and is not always a ball-first player, often applying a shepherd to allowing teammates to win the ball. She is effective at being a link in the chain, and has shown she can play on all three lines.

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

Stats: 25 disposals, 3 marks, 12 tackles, 8 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 5 rebound 50s

The Falcons skipper was enormous again, teaming up well with Huxtable on the inside and getting her hands dirty consistently. She works hard to get behind the ball too, and while predominantly a see-ball, get-ball player, worked hard to win a number of handball receives and keep the pill in motion. Had a really well-balanced game and despite being on the losing team was among the better players on the ground.

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

Stats: 30 disposals, 3 marks, 8 tackles, 7 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

Arguably best-on for the Falcons and certainly alongside Tyrrell in that regard, Huxtable started on-ball and spent most of the game there where she was able to both win it in close, and apply enormous defensive pressure to the opposition as well. Huxtable’s hands through traffic were slick, and she is able to release exceptionally well. While she can sometimes throw the ball on the boot, has a raking left shoe that can gain her side plenty of meterage.

Sandringham Dragons:

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

Stats: 14 disposals, 1 mark, 8 tackles, 1 clearance, 4 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

After missing last week, McIntyre returned to the Dragons squad and had some nice moments running hard down the outside. Boasting a nice burst and willingness to take the game on, she almost kicked a ripping goal via two bounces going forward, but her final kick was intercepted in the goalsquare. Continued to break the line and be an option in space on the outside, while applying fantastic defensive pressure. The final polish is the main area of improvement for the bottom-ager.

#28 Amy Smith
Wing/Defender | 172cm | 07/11/2007

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

Holding her width well across the ground and rolling behind the ball when required, Smith is a good size to compete aerially, while her kicking is one of her biggest weapons. At times she sometimes tried to bite off too much, but worked hard to get the overlap run happening, having worked on her defensive elements this season, particularly to get into ball-winning positions behind the play.

#29 Isla Tucker
Defender | 168cm | 11/07/2008

Stats: 19 disposals, 6 marks, 3 tackles, 2 clearances, 5 rebound 50s

Played an anchor role on the last line and was composed with ball in hand, Tucker is one of those safe players that teammates can rely on to do the defensive things, but also begin offensive drive out of the back half. She can rack up the ball through kickouts or being the first option, but does run well to link up and begin scoring chains from the defensive half of the ground.

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

Stats: 11 disposals, 6 marks, 2 hitouts, 3 inside 50s, 1 goal

The Sandringham skipper presented all day and was a force in the air, working hard and pumping the ball forward. She clunked some big grabs including one on the lead in the first half where she converted a relatively straightforward set shot goal. Was predominantly utilised as that marking target, but stood up throughout the four quarters.

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

Stats: 17 disposals, 2 marks, 4 tackles, 1 hitout, 6 clearances, 5 inside 50s, 4 rebound 50s, 2 behinds

The exciting double bottom-ager competed in the air and thought she had a couple of near misses with marks, she competed and continually brought the ball to ground. Only a couple of behinds to show for her efforts in the second half, Duane was influential around the stoppages winning half a dozen clearances and pumping the ball forward. Has a nice balance of athletic and footballing traits.

Western Jets:

#5 Tayla Olivieri
Midfielder | 159cm | 14/02/2008

Stats: 23 disposals, 1 mark, 7 tackles, 5 clearances, 5 inside 50s, 1 rebound 50

Putting a full stop on her 2025 campaign, the bottom-ager can hold her head high for her year as one of – if not the – most consistent Jet. Certainly through the midfield Olivieri was a constant ball-winner and high production player, and that continued into Round 18. She applied pressure to the opposition ball carrier, and worked form the inside to the outside to get the ball and pump it forward consistently. A name to note for next season.

#7 Jacinta Eteuati
Defender | 175cm | 27/05/2008

Stats: 17 disposals, 2 marks, 5 tackles, 1 inside 50, 3 rebound 50s

The running half-back is a good size with great athleticism which already ticks a few boxes heading into her top-age campaign. She has seemingly got better as the season has progressed, and was able to rebound the ball on a number of occasions, or intercept up the field and sent it back towards goal. She showed slick hands off the turnover chain and worked to get deep in defence when required.

#9 Kiara Boyd
Defender/Forward | 173cm | 02/06/2008

Stats: 15 disposals, 3 marks, 5 tackles, 2 clearances, 3 inside 50s, 2 rebound 50s

One of the more exciting players to watch for next season, Boyd completed her apprenticeship across all three lines by spending time behind the ball throughout the first three quarters. She was thrown forward in the last to create a scoring opportunity, and while Boyd was unable to break through, she consistently looked dangerous. Primed for a huge 2026.

#26 Piper Dixon
Forward | 159cm | 16/10/2008

Stats: 20 disposals, 2 marks, 5 tackles, 3 clearances, 5 inside 50s, 1 behind

Stationed as a forward who pushed up to be around the ball as an extra number at times. Only had one behind to show for her scoreboard impact and had a few ‘almost” moments but did well to cover the ground and tackles with ferocity. Had a great chance on goal to put her side up midway through the last term but her attempt which bounced home was touched on the way through.

#30 Alex McBride-Loane
Defender | 174cm | 03/04/2007

Stats: 18 disposals, 2 marks, 5 tackles, 1 hitout, 2 inside 50s, 6 rebound 50s

Ever the reliable intercepting force in the back half of the ground, McBride-Loane was once again a key component in restricting the Dragons’ attack. She is ultra-aggressive when coming out of the defensive 50 and attempts to boot the ball long with a penetrating right boot. Consistently clearing the ball from danger, she hit some nice passes and was one of the better Jets in their last game of the season.