IT wasn’t to be for the VFLW Blues on Saturday afternoon, narrowly going down to the Cats by seven points at GMHBA Stadium.

Although suffering its second loss in as many weeks, the team’s intent and attack at the ball couldn’t be questioned throughout the entirety of the match.

Senior VFLW coach Shannon McFerran reviews the performances of a number of AFLW-listed players from the weekend’s game:

Lauren Arnell
Stats: 16 disposals, 14 kicks
From the coach: When the football was in her hand, Lauren showed poise and control on Saturday afternoon. She was able to create opportunities and hit up targets further up the ground. She showed maturity and leadership that will continue to be valuable to us throughout the season.

Kerryn Harrington
Stats: 15 disposals, 6 marks
From the coach: Kerryn was fantastic for us in her first hit-out for our VFLW side. A tough opponent, Kerryn’s commitment to spoil was instrumental for us early in the game. She also created plenty of run off the half-back line and gave her teammates an option coming out of defence.

Reni Hicks
Stats: 8 disposals, 7 tackles
From the coach: A solid game from Reni – her tackling was a highlight. She was able to lock down her opponent in the backline, while still being able to impact the contest. Reni can continue to work on her running ability of half-back.

Jess Hosking
Stats: 13 disposals, 6 handballs
From the coach: Teaming up with her sister for the first time in the VFLW season, Jess’ work rate was a feature of her game. Her attack on the ball was great and had an impact around the stoppages.

Sarah Hosking
Stats: 14 disposals, 10 tackles
From the coach: Sarah’s toughness and run through the midfield was a real strength on Saturday. Her tackling pressure and ability to chase down her opponent has been important to the team over the last two weeks. Sarah’s work rate and competiveness keep her in every contest.

Madeline Keryk
Stats: 12 disposals, 10 kicks
From the coach: Maddy spent most of the day playing a role on the half-back flank. Her experience was important for us and she displayed a cool head when transitioning out of the backline.

Breann Moody
Stats: 9 disposals, 1 goal
From the coach: A real consistent four-quarter effort from Breann. She continues to hit to the advantage of our midfielders, allowing them first use. She was able to find plenty of the footy around the ground and finished the day with a goal.

Darcy Vescio
Stats: 11 disposals, 4 goals
From the coach: Darcy was terrific down forward for us. She led from the front all day and created opportunities while scoring four goals herself. Her leadership and ability to bring others into the game cannot be underestimated.