By: Lachlan SHIRLEY

MINOR Premiers of the Geelong Region Women’s Division 1 competition Geelong Rangers claimed the major prize after defeating Deakin Ducks 1-0 in the Grand Final at Myers Reserve on Saturday, while Surfside Waves caused an upset by easily defeating Lara United 5-0 in the Division 2 curtain raiser.

PHOTO: Geelong Rangers’ players Ally Van Dalen (No 14), Zoe Tizard (3) and goalscorer Britt Elsen celebrate the only goal of the Women’s Division 1 Grand Final which would eventually lead them to a hard fought 1-0 win over Deakin Ducks (Photo: Mark Tizard)

The closely fought match between the premier division’s top two teams was played out in awful weather conditions. After the weather turned foul during the pre-match warm up, the rain clouds somehow managed to hold off for the most part of the season finale.

In the opening half of the match, Rangers did most of the attacking after having the bulk of possession, putting a lot of pressure on the Deakin defence. Nothing came of it, however, as the teams went into the break 0-0.

The Ducks came out the stronger of the two teams in the opening moments of the second half. This time, the Ducks were able to retain the majority of the possession but unfortunately for them, they couldn’t capitalise on the scoreboard.

The tables turned mid-way through the second half as Lara Heric controlled a quality cross from Britt Elsen on the left only to see her shot go just inches wide off the target.

Rangers managed to break the deadline shortly afterwards, however, as Britt Elsen scored from point blank range for what turned out to be the match winner.

A few other clear-cut chances for Rangers to extend their lead were not utilized, but the one goal was enough to get the Rangers home to secure the coveted title.

In the earlier Women’s Division 2 Grand Final, Surfside Waves completely outclassed minor premiers Lara United after defeating them 5-0.

The match was played in terrible conditions but the Waves were the team that brought their class and focus to the contest and in the end cruised past the pre match favourites to take out the 2018 Women’s Div 2 Grand Final title.

Lachlan Shirley is a young SEDA student, currently doing work experience with FFV Geelong. He will be compiling regular weekly reports on the Geelong Region Men’s and Women’s Division 1 competitions.