By Malaya Rodezno
Roys Women’s squad

This was more than just a game of football, it was a community standing together.

On Round 8, the Fitzroy Women’s program decided to take a stand and wear two red armbands in protest against the State Government cutting women’s sports programs, and to honour women who have been killed in gender-based violence this year.

The ball was first bounced in the early morning, as the Reserves took on Caulfield Grammarians at Glen Huntly Oval, who were intent on remaining undefeated.

In near-perfect football weather conditions, the stage was set for a highly contested match.

Inclusions of senior players Esther Boles, Giselle Lambley and Morgan McNally gave the Reserves a major lift entering the match.

The Seniors turned up early, in numbers, to support the Reserves, however, Caufield was able to do all the scoring in the first half. They led 22–0 at halftime.

In the second half, the Ressies came out intending to put a score on the board. Even though no score was recorded, the Roy Girls maintained pressure on the ball and transitioned defensively to the best of their ability.

Caufield was able to kick away, booting 8.9.57 to maintain top position on the Reserves ladder.

It was a hard-fought game, and the Reserves never gave up the fight within the contest, not once dropping their heads.

At 11:30 am, it was the Seniors’ time to respond and take on the ladder leaders, Caufield.

Earning a spot in the Seniors this week was forward Molly Tancred, who last week proved why she deserves senior status.

Returning to the side was midfielder, Clodagh Taylor, who’d spent a week in Reserves after coming back from injury.

Head Coach Nathan Jumeau emphasised before the game that it was just an ordinary game, and with belief on our side, there was no reason we couldn’t win.

After winning the first clearance, we all knew we had the will to win. Focusing on defensive pressure and transition, the Roy Girls came out with determination.

Even though Caufield hit the scoreboard first with a goal, Fitzroy was able to hit back with a clean clearance from the middle, hitting leading forward Nessa Cooney-Hunt on the chest. She was able to convert from 40 out and slotted the ball straight through the middle.

Nevertheless, Caufield kicked multiple goals to be ahead at halftime, leading by 5 points.

The third quarter was highly contested, with the ball moving around the ground.

Small forward Tara Lind was able to put through another goal, kicking around her body.

The game was close for much of the game, as Caufield struggled to kick goals, instead kicking points.

By the fourth quarter, the Seniors held on to the belief that they could win the game but Caulfiled ran out eventual winners 3.7.25 to Fitzroy 2.4.16.

Although it didn’t go as planned, Fitzroy coaches were pleased and excited for the weeks ahead, knowing we can compete with the best of the best.

It was a game to reflect on and think, but also a wake-up call for both sides, now understanding what it takes to be the top team in both grades.