Women’s Australian-Rules Football was again on display this past weekend as Round 4 of the Ontario Australian Football League kicked off at the University of Toronto-Scarborough campus between the Ottawa Lady Swans and Hamilton Wildcats. As competition continues to heat up in the development of this league, these two teams have quickly developed reputations for hard-nosed, aggressive brands of football. Saturday’s match did not disappoint.
In the opening moments, it was obvious both teams were desperate for a win and continue their ascent up the league ladder. The Lady Swans were able to capitalize on their chances early and often, highlighted by the relentless pursuits of Ricki-Lee Pitman. Not to be outdone, the undersized ruck, Emma Dickinson proved her mettle across the centre of the ground and was quick to challenge any 50-50 ball available. Running stride-for-stride, Aimee Legault proved to be a stand-out performer as she controlled the middle and attacked accurately, registering 6 goals on the day. Hamilton challenged valiantly, but trailed at the first break.
The second term saw much of the same intensity and players continually demanding possession. As the Lady Swans’ backline came under fire, the sure hands and strong boots of Lisa Dalla Rosa, Margo Legault and Mirabel Eboka deftly patrolled the goals and stifled the Wildcat forwards. Tara Cools-Latrigue and Lindsay Belzie were relentless and made several strong tackles, creating turnovers for Ottawa and producing major scores, which stretched the Lady Swans’ lead at the half.
With such stellar play, Coach Chris MacLean could only ask his players for a repeat performance in the second half. Forwards Meghan Haycock and Amanda Paradis continued their strong effort with several marks and each notching tallies on the scoreboard for the visiting side. To their credit the Wildcats did not cease an inch all game long and forced several turnovers with strong tackling of their own.
With legs growing tired, both teams muscled a final push in the fourth quarter. In front of a small but boisterous crowd, both teams did not look to disappoint and endured their aggressive styles and ran out strong fourth quarters. Coach Chris MacLean was delighted with the effort from all players: “It was evident from the opening bounce that both sides had a burning desire to sacrifice for their team. The Lady Swans were willing to put in all on the line for the jumpers on their backs and I couldn’t be more delighted. We attacked the ball with vigour and were rewarded at the end of the day.” At the final siren, the quick-start and merciless forward pressure of the Swans proved too great, as they came away winners on the day.
The Lady Swans enjoy a short break, but return to action at the Rideau Carleton Raceway on June 23rd.
Ottawa Swans 13.13 (91) defeated Hamilton Wildcats 1.1 (7).
Goals: A. Legault (6), E. Dickinson (4), A. Paradis (2), M. Haycock
Best: E. Dickinson, A. Legault, M. Legault, A. Paradis
Last Modified on 11/06/2014 23:35