18 Guns arrived at a frosty Albert Park early Saturday morning, greeted with how to vote flyers and the grim news that flu and sickness had decimated our numbers. South Melbourne Districts had an enviable bench but the Guns were optimistic after only needing 16 starting players to secure a win last week.
The match opened with both sides struggling to get a clean possession as the ball was slippery like a bar of soap on the icy ground. Jess Hoskins (sister of Bridie and daughter of past club president Pat McConville) was a late inclusion to the side and debuted in the forward line.
Unfortunately there weren’t many opportunities for the forwards in the first quarter with SMD kicking 1.1 which went unanswered.
After the quarter break De La found their groove with Lee McHenry bursting out of the midfield and slotting two timely goals. Sister duo Jess and Emma Carson were fantastic creating many opportunities out of the midfield together. Jess Coleman, Izy Catrice and Michelle Bourke held down the back line and the Guns found themselves only 2 points behind at half time.
Captain Courageous Jen Males’ work rate was exceptional and inspirational. Unfortunately Mighty Males took a nasty knock after a gutsy spoil, and had to be helped off the ground much to her displeasure in the third quarter.
In the final quarter morale was low. The Guns lost their run and were unable to recreate the magic of the 2nd quarter. Players were feeling battered and bruised as South Melbourne were able to utilise their fresh legs and amped up their physicality to their advantage.
Result : DLS 2.0.12 v SMD 5.7.37
