By Lance Jenkinson
Western Bulldogs could not repeat their heroics of two weeks earlier in Sunday’s Victorian Football League women’s grand final.
The Bulldogs caused a big upset when they beat minor premiers Collingwood in the semi-finals to be the first team through to the decider, but the Magpies exacted their revenge on the big stage, running out convincing winners by 37 points at Ikon Park on Sunday.
In her post-game speech, Bulldogs captain and forward Mickayla Ward conceded the Magpies were the best team over the course of the season.
“Firstly, I’d like to obviously congratulate the Collingwood footy club,” Ward said.
“You’ve been the benchmark all year and we didn’t just come here today to fill a spot, we came here to work hard, but [you were] too good today, so congratulations to you guys.”
Western Bulldogs endured a slow start, trailing by 17 points at quarter-time.
PHOTO GALLERY: VFLW grand final
It was former Bulldog Jaimee Lambert who did the damage with the opening two goals of the game. It looked as though the first term was merely a hiccup for the Bulldogs, who were the dominant side in the second quarter.
The Bulldogs got back into the game courtesy of goals to Sophie Molan and Emma Mackay.
The Sean Kavanagh-coached Bulldogs were getting plenty of drive from the likes of Bailey Hunt, Ellie Gavalas, who had 19 disposals each, and Kirsty Lamb, with 15.
Unfortunately for the Western Bulldogs, they could not maintain the rage and were out-classed in the second half. Collingwood kicked five goals to nil in the second half to run out comfortable winners.
