The Calder Cannons remain undefeated in the inaugural TAC Cup girls competition after a thumping win against Western Jets on Wednesday night.
The Cannons led by 14 points at quarter-time, before kicking 12.12 to nothing in the last three quarters to win 15.15 (105)-1.1 (7).
Assistant coach Jason Peak said that while the big win was pleasing, the Cannons’ focus remained on developing the players and preparing them for potential drafting.
“Wins are a bonus,” he said.
It’s the second time in three games the Cannons have had one-sided wins.
“We kept them to two or three inside 50s in the first quarter and I don’t think they had an inside 50 in the second and third quarters,” he said.
“There’s an entire team focus for us that we have to be mindful of not just being attacking. We have to make sure we hold our structures.”
With some players from both sides playing on Saturday in a combined Cannons/Jets team against Tasmania, neither side was at full strength. The Jets decided to rest players completely, while the Cannons had minute restrictions on several players.
Chloe Molloy’s transition from basketballer to footballer for the Cannons continues – she kicked five goals on Wednesday night and has 14 goals for the season.
Madison Prespakis had her best game of the season and was among those to play on Saturday.
Peak said the fact they weren’t relying on Prespakis to kick goals like had in previous years of the academy was a good indication of the development of the side.
Georgia Patrikios continued her good form and was named best on ground.
Peak said Lauren Caruso continued to show development.
“We named her captain and she’s a fantastic person,” he said. “Her performances from game to game have gone from strength to strength … she was really influential in the win against Eastern Ranges.
“She’s lifted her performances and now is a realistic chance of being drafted.”
Kellie Sutton, Chloe Hodgson, who kicked two goals, and Carla Rendelmann all made their debuts for the Cannons against the Jets.
The Cannons sit on top of the ladder after three rounds, one of three undefeated sides.
With no finals, the title winner will be the team that finishes on top of the ladder.
The Cannons’ next match will be against Oakleigh Chargers on Sunday.
