UPDATE: Caroline Springs Lakers have secured the premiership title in the Western Football League women’s competition, completing an undefeated season with a decisive victory over Yarraville-Seddon, 10.8 (68) to 8.3 (51), on July 15, 2023.
The Lakers, who faced a challenging match, displayed resilience and skill as they fought off a late surge from the Eagles. With a pivotal goal from Mira Diab sealing the win on the final siren, the Lakers celebrated a hard-earned triumph after two years of near misses.
Lakers coach Alex O’Shea expressed her relief and pride following the match. “It feels relief to be honest,” she stated. “The girls had to be really on today. It was a four quarter performance of footy and we played our game.”
The match began with both teams trading goals in a high-scoring first quarter, leaving the Lakers ahead by just one goal at the first break. A dominant second quarter saw the Lakers extend their lead to 23 points at halftime, thanks to a five-goal surge.
As the third quarter unfolded, Yarraville-Seddon managed to regain momentum, scoring the only goal of the period and narrowing the margin to 18 points. Early in the last quarter, the Eagles kicked two quick goals, bringing the score back to within a goal, igniting tension among the Lakers’ supporters.
In a crucial moment, Jacinta Kondis found the net for the Lakers, stabilizing their position. The Eagles fought hard but could only manage one more goal before Diab’s final strike sealed the match for Caroline Springs.
“It wasn’t an easy game, especially in that last quarter,” O’Shea remarked. “Credit to our girls, we got challenged in the game and we kept fighting.”
Diab’s six-goal performance was instrumental in the Lakers’ success, while Akima Manoah was awarded the best on ground medal for her outstanding contributions. This victory marks the Lakers’ second premiership title, adding to their impressive streak of six consecutive grand final appearances.
Reflecting on the team’s journey, O’Shea noted the hard work invested in the club’s female program, which also saw their under-18s win the EDFL premiership just days prior. “It shows the strength in numbers that we have at Caroline Springs,” she stated.
O’Shea’s personal journey added to the emotional weight of the victory, as she returned to coaching just six weeks after giving birth to her daughter. “I’m very grateful to have a lot of people who are supportive,” she shared, emphasizing the importance of teamwork both on and off the field.
This thrilling win not only highlights the Lakers’ dominance in the league but also reinforces the spirit and dedication of the entire Caroline Springs community. Fans are already celebrating this remarkable achievement, making it a memorable day for the club.
Stay tuned for more updates on this and other sporting events as the excitement continues to unfold!
