COLLINGWOOD has landed an important blow in its hunt for a fifth consecutive finals series, beating Geelong by six points in tough conditions on Sunday afternoon.
A late attacking surge from Geelong proved to be too little, too late, as the Pies recorded an important 4.6 (30) to 3.6 (24) win at Victoria Park.
The only blemish for Collingwood, who has now won its last four games, was a hamstring concern for important defender Lauren Butler, who was ruled out midway through the second quarter with precautionary hamstring awareness.
On a blustery Melbourne day, where rain fell in fits and starts, it came down to which side could better adapt to the conditions. The Pies worked hard to gain and control territory, keeping the Cats’ defence under immense pressure.
Throughout the first quarter Geelong’s backline stood up well, conceding just two points from 13 inside 50s, but that started to collapse after the first break. Collingwood conceded that it wasn’t going to be able to play pretty football, instead looking to gain ground with every disposal and generate an outnumber at the fall of the ball.
Mikala Cann (24 disposals, 17 contested possessions and a goal) was immense for the home side, dominating at the contest, really setting a standard for her team. Meanwhile captain Brianna Davey (19 disposals, eight tackles) was strong once again, generally starting in the forward line and pushing up to the contest.
In conditions that didn’t lend themselves to tall players excelling, Sabrina Frederick was outstanding for the Pies. Working confidently in her new position through the ruck, she finished the game with 39 hitouts, 10 disposals and five tackles, and seemingly played with a dry ball.
Nina Morrison attempted to rally the Cats, kicking her side’s first goal late in the third quarter and working cleanly through the final quarter to create goals for Zali Friswell and Jackie Parry, only for them to fall agonisingly short.
The Pies will now travel to Sydney next week to take on the Swans who currently sit 10th win four wins and four losses.
