The Southern Saints have kicked off their 2022 VFLW campaign in style, securing a 20-point victory over last year’s Grand Finalists, Collingwood.
The Saints dominated across the board, leading from the outset to overrun the former league leaders 4.5 (29) to 1.3 (9) at Victoria Park. Sunday’s result marked the Magpies’ first loss since 2019.
Grace Buchan (25 disposals) and Jacqui Vogt (21 disposals, seven tackles) led the visitors from the front, while Ebony Nixon (17 disposals) was a steadying influence coming off half-back.
The Magpies struggled to crack the Saints’ defence throughout the day, registering just two inside-50s in the opening term as Olivia Flanagan and Gabriella De Angelis converted to open up an early advantage.
The Southern Saints’ control on the game was a direct result of their pressure, with a brilliant chasedown tackle from Vogt setting the tone for the rest of the game.
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AFLW-listed players Vogt and Nat Exon (one goal) added to the offensive, while Kate McCarthy spent most of the morning off half-back.
The pressure from the Saints’ back six was notable, with Collingwood only converting a major score during the third term.
A late charge from Abbi Moloney capped off a tense, albeit better term, for the Magpies, who were able to wrestle back some momentum.
Dale Robinson’s charges, however, had all the answers. A brilliant run-down tackle from Nicki Cormack helped find the goals and ultimately keep the home side at bay, despite the wind picking up late in the contest.
The Southern Saints will take on Carlton next week, with the date, time and venue to be confirmed in the coming days.
SOUTHERN SAINTS 2.1 3.2 4.2 4.5 (29)
COLLINGWOOD 0.1 0.1 1.2 1.3 (9)
GOALS
Southern Saints: Flanagan, De Angeles, Exon, Cormack
Collingwood: Moloney
BEST
Southern Saints: Buchan, Vogt, Nixon, Neaves, Black, Hynes, De Angelis
Collingwood: King, Hales, Neal, Lee, Bunker, Master, Jackson
