If ever there was a poster girl for the old-fashioned “utility” role, Lauren Brazzale would surely fit the bill.
Forward, back and in the middle, Brazzale has done it all in the first five rounds of the inaugural AFLW season.
She continued her impressive run of form in Carlton’s six-point win over the Bulldogs on Saturday at Ikon Park, playing predominantly through the middle.
“It was so good to get back on the winning side of things. We played a lot better and played the style of football that we’ve been working towards,” Brazzale said.
Lauren Brazzale celebrates the Round 1 win over the Magpies. (Photo: AFL Photos)
“I think we’re really coming together and we’re now playing the football we know we’ve always been able to play.”
The popular Brazzale was quick to praise the efforts of her teammates, especially those in the defensive half of the ground. Led by vice-captain Bri Davey, who was a late inclusion after overcoming a back complaint, Carlton’s backline was able to hold on in the dying minutes of the final quarter to secure the team’s third win of the season.
Tilly Lucas-Rodd also shone for the Blues, with a dominant performance across half-back earning her a NAB Rising Star nomination.
“The backline was so strong. They all know their positions and their communication is amazing,” Brazzale said.
“The Western Bulldogs have some talented players, so to stop them from playing how they wanted to play really helped us get on top.”
With only two more rounds to play, the Game Changers know that everything needs to go right in order to secure a Grand Final berth, but Brazzale says her teammates remain optimistic.
“This win has definitely boosted morale in the team,” she said.
“We’re always holding onto hope. You never know what can happen in this competition. Any team can beat any other team, so there’s always hope we could make it into the Grand Final.”
The next challenge will be facing off against the Dockers on Friday away in Perth; a challenge Brazzale and her teammates are looking forward to.
