The Simply Energy AFLW WA Under 19s have narrowly been defeated by South Australia in their opening round of the Under 19s National Championships at Flinders University Stadium on Sunday.
Despite dominating large periods of the game, the Western Australian girls couldn’t convert in front of goal, going down in a thriller by six points.
Peel’s Ella Roberts was outstanding for the visitors, showing her versatility throughout the contest, racking up several possessions and taking a number of contested marks
Both teams were tough in the clinches during the first half, with scoring at a premium.
Western Australia didn’t find their first goal until deep into the second term as Chloe Reilly converting from 20-metres out after a strong contested mark.
The third term was full of missed opportunities for the Sandgropers, owning the ball in their forward 50 but unable to convert all of their chances.
South Australia pushed clear in the last term with an early goal and despite an incredible snap from Roberts late, it wasn’t enough as hosts held on for a memorable victory.
Ashley Reidy and Nyra Anderson showed plenty of dash for the women in yellow, creating plenty of scoring opportunities.
Western Australia will now head to the Gold Coast to play their next fixture in the AFLW Under 19s National Championship.