Centrals Trinity Beach booked their spot in the Cairns AFL Women’s grand final with an upset win over Manunda on Saturday. Wet and slippery conditions perfectly suited an understrength Bulldogs team, as they streaked to an early lead despite starting the match one player short.
By the time Tamara Wolski turned up midway through the first quarter, her Centrals side had slotted two early goals and were on their way to an upset win. But Manunda were not willing to give up their dream of repeat grand final appearances without a fight.
The Hawks fought back from an early deficit and were able to come close to snatching victory. But a brilliant goal from the sideline from Sarah Edwards in the final quarter sealed the deal for the Dogs.
“It was so wet and the ball was so heavy, but she just kicked this brilliant goal from the sideline,” team veteran Kristen Lawless said. “We all just ran over and started celebrating.”
That goal put the Bulldogs seven points ahead and they were able to hang on in the final moments to score a 5.0 (30) to 3.6 (24) win.
