In the last Division 1 match before the finals the home team South Australia came out determined to have a real crack against a Western Australian team tuning up for another crack at the Big V. Adelaide Uni Oval 1 was in excellent condition & the scene was set for these two teams to play hard.
The first quarter was tight and tough with both sides keen to assert their authority. SA actually went inside 50 more than team WA but couldn't capitalise on their entries scoring 1.1 compared to WA's 2.5. WA's inaccurate kicking was keeping SA right in the game and WA took a 10 point lead into the first break.
WA started to get on top in the middle in the 2nd quarter dominating the inside 50's and kicked 6.3 for the quarter while holding SA scoreless. Kirby Bentley began to find space even where there was none while WA tall Rikki Ryder was having an influence out of the middle before going down with a lower right leg injury just before half time. Ryder didn't return after the main break. WA by 50 points at the main break.
SA came out after half time knowing they had just 2 quarters left in the Champs. The home team gave their all and there was a huge roar from the crowd when SA player Eliza Oates tackled Rheanne Lugg on the grand stand wing in front of an adoring home crowd. The 3rd quarter was a very physical affair with SA led by inspirational captain Courtney Cramey throwing everything at WA. Lisa Kennedy, Melissa Wilson & Kym Carter showed the way for SA while Kirby Bentley, Chelsea Randall & Ashlee Atkins continued to get plenty of the ball. SA had plenty of possessions but again couldn't capitalise where it hurts most, on the scoreboard. WA by 57 points at the last change.
SA continued to attack to the city end and finally managed to kick two in a row with Deni Varnhagen & Danielle Cresp scoring consecutive goals. WA worked hard and capped off their final hit out before the grand final with a 51 point win.
Last Modified on 10/06/2011 22:21