Lessons in Loss to South Australia for 16s SideTuesday, May 2, 2023 - 8:32 AM

A final quarter fade out cost WA a chance of victory at the AFL National Development Championships – Girls (U16) match against South Australia at Pentanet Stadium in Joondalup on Saturday.

WA suffered a 29-point loss to South Australia, 9.8 (62) to 5.3 (33), with the visitors kicking three goals in the final quarter to clinch the win.

State Coach Jenna Allomes was proud of her players.

“I thought the girls played hard, aggressive footy, which helped us to get away to a good start.

Unfortunately, South Australia caught us out with clean ball movement and outstanding marking.

We struggled to run out each quarter, and SA kicked goals late.

The effort from the girls was never questioned, though, and they fought until the end,” Allomes said.

The style of play produced by WA was encouraging.

“The girls moved the ball quickly by hand and foot, and it was nice to see some great link-up passages of play.

Some hard tackles and aggressive style of footy was what we wanted,” she said.

Mia Russo led the disposal count for WA with 24, while Brooklyn Gurbiel also won praise from her coach.

Renee Morgan and Olivia Wolmarans were strong contributors as well.

“For such a young team, there’s an immense amount of talent but still plenty to work on.

I think being able to react more quickly to on-field moments will come with more experience,” Allomes said.

The side went into the match without talented duo Evie Cowcher and Olivia Crane, who were given an opportunity in the 18s match against South Australia, but the changes gave Ava Stewart a chance to excel in defence.

After a win over Victoria Country and a defeat to South Australia, the team’s inaugural appearance at the Championships can only be deemed a success, with WA finishing second behind South Australia.

“We’ll conduct exit meetings with the players and discuss their future pathways. They’ll return to their WAFLW clubs and play out the season, then hopefully most will be invited back to the State Programs next year,” Allomes said.