A dominant performance from Queensland in blustery conditions saw them take out the opening match of the 2014 Youth Girls National Championships, beating a valiant Victoria Country side by 23 points.
Kicking with the wind, the first goal of the match was scored by Queensland who maintained their lead for the entire match. Vic Country failed to capitalize on their possession in their second quarter, spending a lot of time inside fifty without reward.
Queensland fullback Shannon Campbell was excellent in defence, denying a number of good opportunities for Vic Country to score.
Queensland, let down by their kicking, scored an unlikely goal just before half-time to extend their lead to 12 points at the long break.
Vic Country improved markedly in the third quarter, dictating play and forcing turnovers after the resumption of play. Queensland were unable to penetrate, with two behinds in quick succession after significant contested play inside fifty.
Tayla Harris began her fifth championships campaign with an outstanding performance across the field for Queensland, the seventeen year -old showing her experience in the ruck and in attack when she scored from the fifty metre line.
Teammate Maddie Protheroe kicked two for the game, including a confident goal from in front, maintaining her composure in the face of heavy defence from Vic Country late in the third quarter.
An early goal in the final quarter saw Queensland’s lead extended to 31 points, Vic Country were again unlucky with a touched goal shortly after.
Luca Gallo eventually kicked the first goal for Vic Country halfway through the final term, but was unable to close the gap.
Final Score: Qld 5.5 (35) Vic Country 1.6 (7)
Goalkickers:
Queensland – Protheroe 2, Healy, Sexton, Harris
Vic Country – Gallo
Best:
Queensland – Baldock, Harris, King, Seaniger, Sexton, Ransfield
Vic Country – Shannon, Long, Gallo, Mulcahy, Mithen, DeGroot
