In a thrilling top-of-the-ladder clash, Gisborne-Kyneton United edged out Taylors Lakes by just seven points in a fiercely contested match that went down to the wire.
The lead changed multiple times throughout the day as both sides brought their best football in a high pressure, highly contested game.
The match was ultimately decided in the final quarter, when experienced ruck Belinda Hateley pushed forward and slotted a crucial goal, giving GKU the breathing room they needed to hold on for the win.
Hateley was instrumental all day, dominating the ruck contests and providing first use to a developing midfield group.
Ainslie, Korinfsky and Nicholson were relentless through the midfield, linking up beautifully to feed the outside runners Chiara Dickson and Alicia Chadwick and keep the ball moving forward for GKU. Their work around the stoppages helped set the tone in a game where territory was hard-fought.
On the scoreboard, Hateley, Cowan and Jacobsen-Logan all contributed with two goals each, providing a consistent threat up forward.
GKU’s defensive unit held strong under immense pressure from the Taylors Lakes forward line. Mitchell played arguably her best football to date, intercepting and rebounding well, while Peterson, Lenius and Brancatisano were rock solid in defense, shutting down key opposition attacks and helping to maintain structure when it mattered most.
GKU 6.5.41 def Taylor’s Lakes 5.4.34.
Round 5 sees GKU take on Sunbury Kangaroos Saturday May 10, 5pm at Gardiner Reserve.
Teagan Ainslie. 
Belinda Hateley. 
Ayesha Nicholson. 
Ayesha Nicholson. Photos: Sophie McLeod
