THE VFLW Blues have gone down fighting to the Cats in their final game of the VFLW season.
Blustering winds made conditions for both sides, but it was Geelong who were able to make the most of its chances with the breeze running out with a 33-point victory.
The loss sees the Blues finish their 2019 campaign with three wins and one draw. However, there are many positives to be taken from the season with breakout seasons from the likes of AFLW listed players Abbie McKay, Charlotte Wilson and Emerson Woods.
There was also the opportunity to see newcomers Bry Gurr, Courteney Bromage, and Sarah and Gemma Wright take their first steps towards what is likely to be a very bright future.
Q1.
Defending a strong breeze, Carlton had a difficult task set out for them in the first term. Geelong were able to take advantage of the breeze managing repeat inside 50s, resulting in two quick goals. The Blues were able to settle well after the initial burst from Geelong, with the tackle pressure lifting around the contest. Jess Hosking and Sarah Wright were stand outs behind the ball. Mia Rae Clifford made the most of the Blues first forward 50 entry, kicking a nice goal on the run. A goal on the quarter time siren from Bry Gurr narrowed the margin back to 13 points.
Q2.
With the breeze on their side, the Blues started well around the contest but struggled to find a target inside 50. The quarter was played between the arcs with both sides having plenty of numbers around the contest. Courteney Bromage provided great run from half back, even showing her evasive skills, dancing around her opponent on the wing. Gabrielle Newton found plenty of ball through the middle of the ground, showing her football smarts with clever passes by hand and foot. Carlton went in to half time trailing by 15 points.
Q3:
Q4.
The last quarter started well for the Blues with Gurr moving into the centre and winning the first clearance. Emerson Woods worked herself into the game across the wing and provided great run and carry. The back end of the quarter saw the Blues have repeat inside 50s, looking to cut the Cats' lead before the final siren. Bromage, continued to battle hard across the backline while a move up forward for Sarah Wright also provided Blues with a strong target.
Shan’s Player of the Day: Britney Gutknecht
“Brit showed great intent at the ball today and competed really well,” McFerran said.
“As one of our youngest players she just went out there and played her role, she has finished the season really well.”
CARLTON VFLW 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.3 (15)
GEELONG CATS 4.1 4.3 6.6 7.6 (48)
GOALS
Carlton: Rae-Clifford, Gurr
BESTS
Carlton: Gutknecht, Gemma Wright, Sarah Wright, Gab Pound, Jess Hosking and Megan Neill
