The VFLW Tigers have ended their pre-season campaign on a high note, winning the Anzac Challenge Cup with a hard-fought victory over the Australian Defence Force Women's All Stars.
The Tigers impressed on Anzac Day Eve as they recorded a 12-point win of 4.4 (28) to 2.4 (16).
The practice match, held at the Swinburne Centre’s Punt Road Oval, was a curtain raiser to the AFL Richmond v Melbourne blockbuster at the MCG.
After a heavy 82-point loss on Saturday against Hawthorn, Richmond proved they were back in full swing. Kate Dixon set the tone for the Tigers as she swiftly booted the ball from the ground to claim the first goal of the match.
Richmond displayed fantastic pressure around the ball in the drizzly conditions, led by Jess Kennedy and Ellie George, who recorded five tackles each.
But as to be expected, the ADF Women's All Stars were tough competitors. The team of servicewomen footballers comprised of multiple AFLW players. They came back with a vengeance in the second term, snagging the first goal of the quarter.
Beth Lynch, however, soon retaliated. Capitalising from a free kick, Lynch launched the ball straight through the middle of the sticks to steer the Tigers back on track.
Former Collingwood AFLW player Lauren Tesoriero looked clean and composed in her first match for the Tigers as she snapped Richmond’s third goal. She also topped the team for disposals, finishing the game with 22.
New-recruit Kate Dempsey impressed along the wing as the midfielder showcased both her football smarts and running ability.
Utility Emma Gunn was industrious as she amassed 11 disposals, eight kicks plus four inside-50s.
Coach Tom Hunter said he was pleased with how the team trusted their processes.
“What we did on Saturday was we stuck to our processes really well and we did the same thing again today. So today was probably more a reward for that on the scoreboard,” Hunter said.
Tiger Jacqui Graham was awarded best on ground for her prolific performance which included a game-high 14 kicks.
Coach Hunter said Graham has an invaluable knack for reading the play.
“She sets herself up really well behind the ball and she’s got a really good understanding of what the game needs. She makes the girls around her play better as well,” he said.
With practice matches now concluded, it’s time for Round 1. The VFLW Tigers will face off against the Western Bulldogs at VU Whitten Oval on Saturday, May 5, at 4:00pm.
Match details
Richmond 4.4 (28)
ADF Women's All Stars 2.4 (16)
Goalkickers – Richmond: Deller, Dixon, Lynch, Tesoriero.
Best – Richmond: Dempsey, Graham, Gunn, Kennedy, Ross, Tesoriero.
