On the day it farewelled US college-bound sisters Audrey and Ursula Fithall, Williamstown gave all-conquering rivals Newport a real scare.
The surprise half-time score in Sunday’s final round of Lacrosse Victoria women’s state league at Fearon Reserve gave Williamstown a 5-3 lead. But Porters steadied after the break to pile on 10 of the last 11 goals, winning 13-6.
“It was fantastic to get to half-time in a commanding position,” Williamstown president Sarah Nobbs told Star Weekly. “We’ve really worked hard on our starts.”
Unfortunately, Williamstown could not send the Fithall sisters out in style. It was their last game before they move to New York’s Niagara University.
“It’s been a while since we’ve had players from our club go over to college,” Nobbs said. “They’ll learn a wealth of experience, not only in lacrosse, but in life as well.”
There is a significant gulf in class between Williamstown and Newport. Newport was last year’s champion side, and claimed this season’s minor premiership while Williamstown only registered three wins for the season – all against bottom side Caulfield.
“It was the tale of two halves,” Nobbs said.
“With the quality of players they have around goal, it just put that pressure on our defence the whole time.”
With the women’s top-tier a four-team competition, Williamstown has qualified for finals. The Towners meet Caulfield for a semi-final at home at Greenwich Reserve on Sunday.
Williamstown was chosen by the league to host the semi-finals and grand final this season.
“It’s a good opportunity for not only the people of Victoria, but the people of the west, to get out and support their local clubs,” Nobbs said. “We’re thrilled to be able to host it.”
In the other game, Footscray found Caulfield a tough nut to crack, but secured a 10-8 win. The Scray will meet Newport to determine the first side through to the grand final.
In the men’s state league, Footscray took the minor premiership with a 17-11 win over Moreland. This puts Footscray in battle with Surrey Park for a grand final place, while Williamstown has a semi-final against Camberwell. Both games will be played at Altona’s PJ Lynch Reserve on Saturday.
