Last Sunday July 17 saw a major milestone for women’s footy in our region in a first match between two standalone, regional footy clubs dedicated to women and gender diverse people – the Mt Alexander Falcons and Bendigo Thunder.
Another strong crowd turned out at Harcourt Recreation Reserve to support the Falcons, braving the wet and cold conditions to cheer on the local team.
With the Falcons playing just their second home game at Harcourt and the Thunder enjoying a season among the top sides in the competition, the Thunder proved the stronger team and enjoyed the majority of the attacking play.
Playing generally on the back foot, the Falcons defended with discipline and launched counterattacks with strong numbers in support.
The standout moment of the Falcons’ defensive game was Amy Downing tackling multiple opponents in the same play, with even some Falcons tumbling out of the way.
Other highlights included Casey Soulwa’s relentlessness in the backline, Gabe Smith’s strength in slipping out of tackles and Alice Taylor’s huge mark in the midfield in the third quarter.
All three players were among the Falcons’ best players on the day, in addition to Jesse Boylan, Carly Chapman and Mads Toohey.
The Falcons now have two games remaining in this run of fixtures, away to Kyneton this Saturday July 23 and away to Kerang on August 7.