Hawthorn’s VFLW team has passed another difficult test, defeating the Southern Saints by nine points at Trevor Barker Beach Oval on Saturday afternoon.
The Saints dominated the first half of the game leading at every break, until the Hawks performed in a resilient last quarter to overcome the hosts and secure their ninth win of the season.
Ashleigh Allsopp and Danielle Lawrence got the home side off to a quick star, kicking the only two goals for the opening term.
It was a quiet second quarter as the Saints continued to restrict their visitors of any majors. The Hawks played with more pressure around the ball, but were unable to capitalize on goal opportunities. Despite the Hawks efforts to hold off their opponents, Kayla Ripari kicked the only goal for the term as the Hawks trailed by 11-points at halftime.
The half-time reset was crucial for the Hawks, who returned a stronger and more composed side. Lou Wotton was the first to convert, with a quick goal just seconds after the siren. Momentum shifted as Hawks forward Emily Gilder followed with a big goal from a set shot 45m out. A late goal from Tara Bohanna saw the Saints pinch back a five-point lead before the final break.
The last quarter was the strongest for the Hawks, kicking three goals to none. Sarah Perkins, on return from injury, added to her season goal tally. It was a special day for Emily McIlvena, who had her Hawthorn debut and also kicked her first goal.
The afternoon saw a huge comeback effort from the Hawks who trailed at every quarter, with a final major from Rebecca Beeson sealing the result 5.8(38) to 4.5(29).
The Hawks face another tough challenge next week against the Darebin Falcons on Saturday August 4th at 12pm at Bill Lawry Oval.
HAWTHORN 0.4 0.7 2.8 5.8 (38)
SOUTHERN SAINTS 2.0 3.0 4.1 4.5 (29)
GOALS
Hawthorn: Wotton, Gilder, Perkins, McIlvena, Beeson
Southern Saints: Allsopp, Lawrence, Ripari, Bohanna
BEST
Hawthorn: Van Dyk, O’Donnell, Ebb, Crockett-Grills, Nixon, Beeson
Southern Saints: Watt, Johnson, Jones, Olsen, Allsopp, Drennan
