It was a game of firsts for one club and a game of survival for another as the new kids on the block, the Wedge-Tailed Eagles (formerly the Kyneton Women’s Football Club), took on the old guard and long-time pioneers of women’s football, Bendigo Thunder.
The Eagles had plenty to prove in their first match, with many of their players already familiar with Thunder from their days competing in the CVFL several years ago. With strong support for both clubs and perfect conditions, the Eagles went to work quickly, establishing a commanding lead and heading into half-time 53 points up while Thunder searched for answers against a well-drilled Wedge-Tailed Eagles outfit, led by the likes of Teagan Ainslie, Ash Nicholson and Belinda Hateley.
In recent months, Bendigo Thunder has run a recruitment campaign aimed at rebuilding the club, bringing in fresh faces supported by experienced players and coaches. The club has been around for 15 years and was one of the first independent women’s football clubs in Victoria. While they have enjoyed a long history of success, the expansion of competitions across the region in recent years has impacted player numbers.
On Good Friday, however, the Thunder fielded a full side and bench, working hard to put their new players through their paces and gain valuable experience against a polished Eagles lineup.
For the Wedgies, several newer players impressed, while last season’s Rising Star Brooke Cowan was outstanding. Cowan earned Best on Ground honours and kicked three goals, rotating between the midfield and forward line and continually impacting the contest.
Another standout was Demi Henderson, who until this season had been a talented local netballer before making the switch to football. Henderson looked right at home on the wing and was influential throughout the day.
Emma Williams was dangerous in the forward line with four goals, while the usual Eagles defenders Shannon White, Skye Sinclair and Luce Lenius also found the scoreboard, kicking four goals between them.
In total, the Wedgies finished with 13 individual goal scorers, a clear sign that coach Phil Hawkes and his newly assembled coaching group have instilled a team-first brand of football that is already paying dividends.
The day itself was a celebration for both clubs, with a strong crowd turning out to support the sides. The Eagles were also joined by Northern Victoria MP Georgie Purcell, who took on water-running duties for the day.
The Eagles now turn their attention to Round 2 of the CVFL when they face Marong at Malone Park on Sunday, April 12, with the first bounce at 1pm.
Wedge-Tailed Eagles def Bendigo Thunder 23.18 (156) to 0.0 (0).
Bests: Eagles: B. Cowan, D. Henderson, A. Nicholson, T. Ainslie. L. Lenius, E. Williams. Thunder: S. Barbagallo, R. Salm, J. Alcon, S. Lean, A. Mclachlan, Y. Hender.
