Gippsland Galaxy has completed a dream debut season by lifting the Victorian Women’s Football League east division premiership cup.
The Galaxy accounted for fellow first-year side Ajax by 37 points in Saturday night’s grand final at Shepley Oval in Dandenong.
A blistering opening quarter set the Galaxy on their way and despite a strong response from the Jackettes, Gippsland had all the answers and went on to win 7.9 (51) to 2.2 (14).
Inaugural Galaxy coach Nikki Schroeter was extremely proud of her team for rising to the occasion.
“It’s a great achievement and to be the first Gippsland team and win a premiership as well is pretty special,” Schroeter said.
“The way the girls performed on and off the field they deserved to win. It was tricky conditions and pretty sloppy football really, no one could get their hands on the ball and it was very congested, but we adapted and Ajax really fought for it, which I liked.
“I would also like to thank the Gippsland League for getting behind women’s football, without their support we wouldn’t be where we are today.”
The Galaxy showed few signs of grand final nerves, dominating from the outset to lead by 26 points at quarter-time.
The game tightened up after the first break, with the Jackettes holding Gippsland to one goal, while adding one of their own through star Toni Hamilton.
Galaxy forward Rachel Drenen’s third goal steadied the ship after half-time and while several other chances went begging, Emily Jolly’s final quarter goal sealed the win.
Sarah Jolly, who kicked the opening two goals of the game, was named best-on-ground, while Danni Pearce, Tayla Tatterson, Lisa Whittaker, Emily Jolly and Patricia Chapman were among the other standouts.
TRFM Gippsland League will now await advice from the VWFL as to whether the Galaxy gain promotion to a higher division next season.
Last Modified on 01/09/2015 10:43