St Kilda recorded an all-time low score in an AFLW match, managing only a solitary point in a 30-point defeat to the Western Bulldogs in Ballarat. The Saints’ only score came in the game’s final moments, marking a dismal performance for a team still searching for its first win of the season.
The Western Bulldogs, while also struggling with the challenging weather characterized by heavy rain and strong winds, managed to score three goals and 13 behinds, reflecting the difficulties both teams faced in accuracy during the match. Rylie Wilcox, Sarah Hartwig, and Cleo Buttifant were the goal scorers for the Bulldogs, with Isabelle Pritchard delivering a standout performance, accumulating 35 disposals and six clearances despite the adverse conditions.
For St Kilda, Ashleigh Richards’ point was the only score, preventing a complete shutout and underscoring the team’s ongoing struggles. Earlier in the day, Essendon achieved its first victory of the season, overcoming GWS by eight points in a thrilling comeback.
The Giants had built a significant 25-point lead early in the third quarter and seemed poised for their second win. However, Essendon, led by star midfielder Madison Prespakis, surged back with increased intensity. Prespakis contributed significantly in the third quarter, registering 13 disposals, six contested possessions, three clearances, and a goal, driving her team to a final score of 6.7 (43) to 5.5 (35) at Henson Park.
Essendon captain Bonnie Toogood expressed pride in her team’s resilience, emphasizing their perseverance in overcoming a challenging season. “The first half wasn’t what we were planning on, but to come out in the third like we did and have big moments from individuals was truly inspiring,” she stated during a post-match interview.
This victory alleviates some pressure from Bombers coach Natalie Wood, while St Kilda remains the only team in the league without a win. The loss was particularly harsh for GWS, who had initially dominated the game by scoring five of the first six goals but faltered in the second half under Essendon’s relentless pressure.
Trailing by just four points at three-quarter time, Toogood motivated her team during the huddle, expressing her passion and belief in their ability to turn the game around. “We were on the back foot… I knew we could get them,” she remarked.
Essendon took the lead with a long-range goal from Daria Bannister, followed by a remarkable checkside goal from Emily Gough that secured the victory. Prespakis concluded the match with an impressive 35 disposals and five clearances, supported by teammates Maddi Gay and Georgia Gee, alongside ruckman Steph Wales, who contributed significantly with 20 disposals and eight clearances.
Toogood and Gough were pivotal in attack, while defenders Alex Morcom and Amy Gaylor excelled with nine intercepts each. For the Giants, standout performances came from Alyce Parker, Tilly Lucas-Rodd, and Cambridge McCormick, who all had strong games despite the team’s overall struggles.
Looking ahead, Essendon (16th, 1-7) will face the finals-contending Western Bulldogs at Whitten Oval on Friday, while GWS (15th, 1-7) will take on the formidable Geelong at Kardinia Park next Saturday.
