Geelong’s VFL Women’s side has recorded a sensational one-point win against Melbourne University on Sunday to sit on top of the ladder at the end of round five.

The Cats trailed Melbourne University from the first minute of the opening quarter, but a goal to Richelle Cranston with three minutes left in the game secured the 4.4 (28) to 4.3 (27) victory.

It was a tightly contested match, with brilliance shown from two-time AFLW All-Australian team member Emma Kearney who booted two quick goals for Melbourne University in the third quarter to open up an 11 point lead.

But the Cats refused to relent and key forward Kate Darby narrowed the margin to just five points halfway through the final quarter, after kicking a brilliant goal from the boundary line.

It was then Cranston who showed her composure, taking a contested mark in front of goals to give Geelong the lead in the dying minutes of the game.

Geelong VFLW coach Paul Hood praised the team’s efforts in their come-from-behind victory.

“We battled really hard all day to try and restrict Melbourne Uni. There were a couple of moments of brilliance from Emma Kearney, which you’re going to get in a game against her, but for the rest of the game we were really solid,” Hood said.

“We were pretty fortunate after only being ahead for the final stages of the game, but we defended well enough to be able to win which was really satisfying,” he said.

Hood was also pleased with his team’s composure, after securing victory in the match’s final minutes for the second consecutive week.

“It’s really showing the learning and the resilience amongst the group,” he said.

“It didn’t look like we were going to be able to get over the top today, but the players just found a way. They followed instructions and improvised as well throughout the game, and it was a terrific finish.”

Defender Amy McDonald was instrumental in the back-line and was named as the Cats’ best player.

“We thought she was superb across half-back,” Hood said.

“Amy just kept scooping the ball up and then rebounding for us to start our attack, she had a terrific day.”

Hood was also impressed with Richelle Cranston, once again being named among the side’s best.

“Richelle obviously kicked that nice goal at the end, but she fought really hard for four quarters in a tight midfield battle,” he said.

According to Hood it was a combination of players across the ground that secured the Cats’ victory.

“Maighan Fogas gave us great drive from half-forward, and Maddy McMahon was in the ruck winning her battles,” he said.

“Danielle Orr and Hannah Burchell also played really well, so in a really tight contest those six players really stood out and helped us get the points.”

The victory also saw the debut of two TAC Cup players, with Lily Brancatisano (Northern Knights 2017) and Sachi DeGiacomi (Geelong Falcons 2018) pulling on the hoops for the first time, in what Hood described as exciting times for the club.

“I think it’s a thrill for everyone to see that exuberance of youth, and then to be really able to lift and make sure those debuting players have a really good day,” he said.

“I’m sure they’ll remember the feeling walking off the ground, and that’s something we look forward to do more of throughout the season.”

The Cats will enjoy a bye next weekend which will allow the players to refresh before facing Darebin in round six.

“They’ve been pretty competitive hit outs over the last month, and it’s time to regenerate a little,” Hood said.

“We’ll still keep working at our game but allow the players’ bodies to recover and then come back for Darebin after the break.”

The Cats will face Darebin at 2:45pm on Saturday 16 June 16 at GMHBA Stadium.


VFL Women’s Round Five
Geelong Cats 4.4 (28) defeated Melbourne University 4.3 (27)
Goals: Darby 2, Burchell, Cranston
Best: McDonald, Fogas, Burchell, Cranston, McMahon, Orr
Injuries: Nil
Reports: Nil
@ Melbourne University Main Oval