Altona’s narrow defeat to Footscray in Hockey Victoria women’s premier league did not have its usual sting.
Of course, the Seagulls would have loved nothing more than to get one up on their western rivals but there was to be no stewing over the 2-1 loss at the Altona Hockey Ground on Saturday, with nothing to be gained or lost other than bragging rights.
The season was effectively over for both teams, with neither having to worry about finals calculations or relegation.
It was a chance for both sides to put on one last show before hanging up the sticks for summer.
Seagulls coach Greg Drake lamented his side’s finishing in front of goal while tipping his hat to the quality of Footscray’s two goals, scored by Tegan Purser and Bethany Russ.
It was a difficult outing for the Seagulls, who had to play without Elise Webster, out through a serious knee injury. Rheanna Gallo was also a late withdrawal with a back injury.
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Footscray took advantage of the Seagulls’ weakened defence to produce goals from open play and a short corner.
“Losing two of our defenders before the game made it tough but it’s not the reason we lost the game,” Drake said.
“We lost the game because we weren’t efficient enough in our attacking circle.
“We made plenty of chances … last week we scored nine and were pretty efficient in the attacking circle. This week we just didn’t have the same smarts and skill level.”
Altona will view the season as a success despite missing out on the finals.
The Seagulls took a holistic approach to the season, trying to unearth new talent, while retaining their spot in the top flight. The future generation of Seagulls is exciting but most are still learning to fly.
“We certainly looked to play as many young people as we could,” Drake said. “We’ve got a number of players – some as young as 13, 14 or 15 – that we’ve already got an eye on for playing in the premier league.
“We’re really happy with the way they’re progressing.”
Danielle Schubach is a favourite to be named the Seagulls’ best and fairest. Attackers Jess Brennan (10 goals) and Stephanie Young (eight) and defender Mairaed Crawford all had fine seasons but Schubach had arguably her best year at club level.
The former Hockeyroo scored a team-high 11 goals from the midfield and will go into the new AHL season with Victoria later this year with ripping form under her belt.
“She really improved her ability in the attacking circle this year and it’s her highest goal tally for a season,” Drake said.
In men’s premier league, both Altona and Footscray had to be content with mid-table finishes.
Altona had a positive end to the season with a 3-1 win over Waverley to finish sixth, while Footscray had to settle for seventh after a 2-0 loss to MCC.
