MELBOURNE has put its players to the test in an intraclub match 29 days out from Round 1.
The Dees took to Gosch’s Paddock on Friday night for a four-quarter game between two sides made up of AFLW players alongside Casey’s VFLW Demons.
In no surprise to anyone, the 2023 leading goalkickers Eden Zanker and Kate Hore picked up where they left off last year, finishing as the top scorers on the day.
Zanker was instrumental for the blue team from the first bounce, clunking a contested mark and finishing with a goal just seconds into the match. The 24-year-old continued this strong aerial performance and ability to convert for the duration of the game.
Hore was back to her usual crafty best, weaving through traffic and snapping scores from across the forward 50.
The skipper was also seen using her power running through the midfield alongside Tyla Hanks and Olivia Purcell, creating a formidable trio in the contest.
The three seemed to work effortlessly together, generating solid strength through stoppages and providing plenty of give to outside wingers Sarah Lampard and Eliza McNamara.
Loz Pearce was as impressive as ever, her follow up at ground level and aerial abilities a clear highlight of the match.
Georgia Campbell showed her development across the ruck and forward line, working well with mentor Pearce to cultivate a comfortable mix across to the two roles.
Draftee Demon Alyssia Pisano looked at home in the forward line alongside the likes of experienced players Zanker, Hore and Alyssa Bannan. Pisano provided bursts of excitement for the blue side with her speedy skills a noticeable standout.
Grace Beasley quickly made her mark as a footballer, having come to the Dees as a college basketballer. Beasley was able to match it in the midfield with seasoned AFLW players and saw plenty of the ball, breaking tackles and producing opportunities for the white side.
Melbourne will now turn its attention to its first opportunity to face opposition when it meets Carlton next Friday, with the opening bounce at IKON Park scheduled for 5pm.
