By Ant Wingard
Queensland has suffered an agonising defeat in their second game in Round 2 of the NAB AFL Women’s Under 18 National Championships on the Gold Coast.
The home state rose to the occasion after their defeat on Monday at the hands of Victoria Country but it wasn’t enough to usurp Victoria Metro at Southport’s Fankhauser Reserve, going down 1.5 (9) to 4.5 (25).
Muddy conditions made the going tough but relentless pressure throughout the four quarters kept Queensland well and truly in the contest – led by the likes of Ellie Hampson (six tackles) and Tarni White (also six tackles).
With score level heading into the first change, it was the visitors who drew first blood early in the second via Emily Harley.
Queensland peppered the inside 50s but could only muster two points for their efforts before Allanah Phineasa snapped truly to etch a slim lead at the main break.
The second half was again tough however Victoria Metro took the most of their opportunities and through Nell Morris-Dalton before they added two more in the fourth to seal the win.
For Queensland, Ellie Hampson remained a constant force in the midfield with a game-high 24 disposals and four inside 50s while captain Lily Postlethwaite also worked tirelessly between the arcs with 17 touches.
Maddison Levi was strong in defence and set the tone early in the game with three tackles and six touches in the opening term.
Queensland backline coach Ash Hales said that while a loss is disappointing, the improvement and spirit shown within the team was commendable.
“Last night at our team review we really challenged the girls to work hard and they came out in the first quarter and absolutely worked their backsides off,” Hales told aflq.com.au.
“We just couldn’t hold on throughout the four quarters and make that effort sustained.
“We couldn’t have asked for anything more. They responded to the feedback and implemented it to give us a bit more opportunity. We’re definitely happy with the way they went about it.”
Queensland will face the Central Allies in their final game tomorrow at Bond University at 2:00pm.
Queensland v Victoria Metro
Wednesday July 10, 10:00am
Fankhauser Reserve, Southport
Queensland 1.5 (11) def. by Victoria Metro: 4.5 (29)
Queensland Goals: A. Phineasa.
