Tara Murray
It was a case of deja vu for West Footscray in the Western Region Football League women’s division 2 competition.
After losing to Spotswood by one point earlier in the season, the Roosters again fell short by the same margin to the Wolves on Saturday.
The Roosters came from behind after trailing by 19 points at the main break. The margin was reduced to six points heading into the final quarter.
Two goals to one in the final quarter wasn’t enough with the Wolves winning, 5.9 (39)-5.8 (38).
Jemma Hay kicked three goals for the Roosters, while Eliza Terry and Baileigh Skinner were named their best.
Speaking before the game, Roosters coach Shane Windridge said they had been happy with the season so far.
“We’re looking good so far,” he said. “We’re pretty happy with how the season has gone to this point.
“Last year we lost the preliminary final by three points, so we’re looking at making finals again and going one step further and making the grand final.
“You never know in this competition, there’s ups and downs with numbers, so you’re never sure, but we’ll be in the mix for the top four.”
Windridge said they had managed to keep 90 per cent of last season’s playing group, with a couple of players deciding to pull the pin.
He said while they had added players like Hay and Roxana Sefton, their biggest focus was developing their own players.
“Roxy and Jemma add a lot to the team,” he said. “They’ve both played a bit of footy elsewhere.
“We’ve had a lot of players come the last few years who we’ve given a bit of experience too.
“We’ve never had issues with numbers. We’ve had a fair few new players every year, we’re a close group and people see that and want to come and join us.”
Windridge said one of their successes had been how they had been able to develop their own players.
The loss on Saturday leaves the Roosters in third spot after the first half of the split round.
The Roosters only two losses have come to the Wolves, who sit on top of the ladder.
In the other match on Saturday, Point Cook was way too strong for Braybrook.
The Bulldogs beat Braybrook for the second time this season, winning 16.11 (107)-0.1 (1).
Zarinjay Stowers and Paige Borjarowski were named the Brookers best.
Laverton Magpies will host Caroline Springs and North Sunshine will play Wyndhamvale in the second half of the split round.
In division 1, Parkside Spurs won the only game played on the weekend, beating Point Cook Centrals.
The Spurs led by 12 points at quarter time, but failed to make the most of their opportunities.
The margin increased the second quarter with the lead out to 20 points at half time.
The second half was closer, but the Spurs were able to do enough, winning 5.9 (39)-2.4 (16).
Rita Ceravolo and Taquila Angel were the Spurs best.
This Saturday, Spotswood plays Caroline Springs and Yarraville Seddon Eagles host Werribee Centrals.
