Ottawa’s Lady Swans were the first in the club’s history to reach the OAFL semi-finals, but were unable to get a win against the first-seeded High Park Demons on Saturday.
Despite the Demons maintaining a small lead all game, it was evenly matched throughout each quarter, with the Swans staying well within reach.The Demons are a fast and skilled side, who are the reigning OAFL Women’s Champions and are the only club to have ever held this title.
Despite being a strong team, it was proven last week that the Demons are not unbeatable, having lost the first game in their club’s history to the Hamilton Wildcats. The Swans were eager to eliminate the Demons from a spot in the Grand Final entirely, and arrived in Toronto on Saturday afternoon hungry for a win.
The Demons were first on the scoreboard, and despite the efforts of a skilled Swans back line, the Dees consistently capitalized on their opportunities with the precision that characterizes the Demon’s style and level of play.
Swans Rookie Erin Armstrong had a great game in the forward line - making big leads, winning contests and kicking two goals. Kirsten Bodashefsky was hard on the ball in both the forward line and through the mid-field with the help of Swans ruck Holly Costanza, giving the Dees several scares and keeping them on their toes. Swans Co-captain Emma Dickinson played a strong and physical game, striving to shut down Demons Captain Erin Loughnane, who last week was awarded the league’s prize for Best and Fairest. The Swans back line players, led by Margo Legault and Cat Geci, were the heroes of the day, limiting the Demons options and chances on goal and preventing a runaway victory.
Ultimately the Swans efforts were not enough to beat the Dees who won by under two goals at the final whistle. It was an excellent display of women’s footy, demonstrating just how much the sport has grown throughout Ontario, and the impressive level of skill and dedication found in clubs and players across the province.
Although the 2013 OAFL season has come to an end for the Swans, it is certainly not the end of football for this dedicated club. The Swans are preparing to host the Women’s National Championships at the Rideau Carleton Raceway in Ottawa between October 11th and 13th. Teams from around the country will be participating in the tournament, which is unprecedented in size and scope for women’s Australian football. The Lady Swans are eager for redemption and hope to finish 2013 as Canadian National Champions, providing the momentum they need as they prepare for next season.
Ottawa Swans 4.5(29) defeated by High Park Demons 6.4(40). The High Park Demons will play the Hamilton Wildcats in the Women’s OAFL Grand Final next Saturday at Humber Lakeshore at 1pm.
Last Modified on 13/06/2014 02:14