Northern Knights’ undefeated run has continued with two wins in the space of a week in the TAC Cup Girls’ competition.
The Knights defeated the Greater Western Victoria Rebels on Tuesday last week, backing it up on Sunday by defeating Oakleigh Chargers.
On Sunday, the Knights overcame a mid-game slump to kick away for a 14.4 (88)-5.7 (37) win.
Knights coach Marcus Abney-Hastings said his players were continuing to stand strong when required.
“They [Chargers] kicked three unanswered goals in the third quarter,” he said.
“We were challenged, like every other week, and came through and kicked seven unanswered goals.
“It was a good performance from the team – they showed a lot of character.”
Abney-Hastings attributed the good finishing to a combination of a high-performance program and the girls’ desire to improve.
“A lot of it comes down to their drive and personal desire,” he said.
“It helps when you have good players and leaders that work hard and persevere – it’s a true reflection of the work the girls have done.”
Abney-Hastings said Sarah Sansonetti and Ellie McKenzie were among the best.
McKenzie, who played in the midfield, kicked three of her goals in the final quarter.
Tiarne Shell, Jemma McCarthy and Malaya Rodezno made their debuts on Sunday and didn’t look out of place.
Abney-Hastings said the club would continue to give players opportunities and shots at different positions.
“It is great to get wins and be competitive, but it’s about developing the players in different positions,” he said.
“We’ll continue to take them out of their comfort zones.”
Despite his side sitting 5-0, Abney-Hastings said the Knights would not be getting complacent.
The Knights are undefeated, as are the Geelong Falcons.
“We’ve got some good teams coming up,” Abney-Hastings said.
“We play Geelong and the Murray Bushrangers, who are two of the best sides.
“We’re under no illusions where we are at. We are going to continue to develop.”
The Calder Cannons’ tough season continued when they suffered a big loss to Sandringham Dragons. The Dragons led 34-0 at quarter-time and eventually won 10.11 (71)-2.4 (16).
Zoe Hardiman was named the Cannons’ best.
The Cannons have just one win from their first five matches.
In the boys TAC Cup, the Knights and Calder Cannons both suffered losses.
The Knights lost to Oakleigh Chargers 13.22 (100)-12.3 (75). The Cannons lost to Sandringham Dragons 14.16 (100)-11.11 (77).
