Last year’s premiers enter the match against the Melbourne University Under-18s as warm favourites following a second undefeated season. They have won their past 26 matches.
Sunbury’s 2008 record is 14 wins while its opponent has been defeated just three times in 14 starts.
This Saturday is the fourth Western Youth Girls grand final with Wyndham Vale winning the first two in 2005 and 2006 before Sunbury took the honours last year.
Despite Sunbury’s great run, AFL Victoria Female Football Development Manager Chyloe Kurdas said the match was far from a forgone conclusion with both home and away matches between the two sides decided by 20 points or under.
“Whilst Sunbury are undefeated in two seasons, Melbourne University Under-18s have shown great improvement over the past six weeks,” Kurdas said.
“They finally have their full playing list together after missing key players early in the season with injury, who are linking up well to play good football.”
Kurdas said Sunbury’s excellence emanated from its hard-working nature.
“They play a strong team game based on a structure and they play for one another and back each others’ abilities,” she said.
“Many of them also play school football together for Sunbury College, who claimed the VSSSA Senior Girls’ State Championship this week.”
Both teams boast a number of AFL Victoria’s Youth Girls Academy members in their ranks - Sunbury - Candace Smith, Mandi Watts, Alex Agrotis, Rhiannon Carra; Melbourne University – Laura Kane, Monqiue Bastiaan, Renae Schwarze.
Kurdas said footy fans could expect a high-octane, highly skilled clash.
“With state selection training starting last week, many players will also be keen to put their best foot forward with selectors eagerly looking on,” Kurdas said.
Match details:
Sunbury v Melbourne University Under-18s
Saturday, August 23 at 10am
JJ Holland Park, Kensington Rd, Kensington
Last Modified on 23/02/2009 12:38