What a fantastic weekend it was for the VWFL, hosting the seventh annual Vic Country vs Vic Metro match, which both Colin Sylvia and I were fortunate enough to attend.  The match showcases some of the best female footballers in the modern game, and it was terrific to watch talented women play a skilful and competitive game.

Both Col and I were fortunate enough to visit the Metro rooms and see the final rev up by senior coach, Pete Searle, who encouraged the players to apply pressure and work as a unit.  Country coach Darren Logan gave his pre-game address on field, and instructed players to use the big ground and run and support.

It was a hard game early, with Vic Country starting off strongly and looking strong in the first quarter.  Metro managed to kick two quick goals in the second quarter, with forward Bianca Richmond presenting well, while Laura Corrigan from the Country team was providing her team plenty of drive.  Metro’s Melissa Douglas, sister of Adelaide Crow player Richard also had an impact playing up forward.  Strong midfielder Katie Loynes combined well with captain Lou Wotton, while wingmen Natalie Wood and Melissa Hickey provided strong options for Country.  Metro proved too strong, running out 20 point winners to grab the 2010 Gender Equity Cup.

On the Melbourne front, it was another close match for the boys, unfortunately going down to the Dogs in a tight contest at the ‘G on Friday night.

With both sides sitting on three wins and three losses apiece, the match took on some extra significance.  This was heightened with both sides coming together for the Field of Women match to raise awareness of breast cancer research, and it was great to see all the supporters on the field in their pink ponchos before the game - it looked absolutely amazing!

Both sides struggled to adapt to the greasy conditions, but it was the Bulldogs who made more of their early opportunities, booting 3.2 to Melbourne's six behinds.

With the Dogs increasing their margin to 22 points early in the second quarter, it was Aaron Davey and Jamie Bennell who combined to set the MCG alight to reduce the deficit to just eight points at the main break, both continuing their great early season form.

The Demons started and finished the third quarter on fire, with late goals to Tom Scully and Nathan Jones reducing the margin to just three points going into the final quarter.

Matthew Bate kicked the first goal of the final quarter to give Melbourne the lead for the first time, and the Dees looked to have sealed the contest through a goal to first-gamer Danny Hughes.

But the Bulldogs kept fighting, with Lake thrown forward to kick an important goal, before Ryan Griffen snapped truly to put the Bulldogs in front.

Matthew Boyd had an immediate impact after missing the previous two weeks with a broken hand, finishing with 19 possessions to be among the Dogs' best.
Shaun Higgins was also outstanding, with 32 possessions, along with Daniel Giansiracusa (31).

For Melbourne, Tom Scully shone under the MCG lights, collecting 39 possessions and revelling in the difficult conditions, Jack Trengove continued his excellent form with 26 disposals, and Bate finished with three goals.

We have a big game against West Coast at MCG this Saturday, so hopefully we can come away with a win.

GO DEES!!!

Paul Johson