In the first quarter, Collingwood had a lot of scoring opportunities which was a positive start compared to previous weeks. The control they possessed over the game gave them confidence leading into the second quarter.

Despite only kicking one before half time, the girls were showing great skills and composure through the midfield. The number of inside 50s were enough for the coaches to be proud of as that was something the team had been working on coming into the game.

Assistant coach Martha Cantwell was impressed with the way they took control of the game and presented in the forward half.

“Our first half was almost perfect; we were doing a lot right it was just the converting of goals. Our message this week was to take it back to basics controlling what we can control and focusing on playing the game our way. Trying to lock the ball in the front half which we were able to do in the first half really well”, Cantwell said.

“We had a lot of shots on goal, however, unfortunately we didn’t capitalise on that with 5.12 but it is a really positive sign for us, keeping the ball in our front half which is the way we want to play. It meant the backs could set up really well behind the ball and get repeat entries”, Cantwell said.

In the second half, the team were able to capitalise a bit more in the forward line, with four goals which ultimately secured the win.

Due to injuries in the first half of the game the girls were playing with two on the bench, further showcasing that the girls were able to step up to the plate.

“We were quite challenged in the second half, but we were really proud of our girls who were able to fight through and manage the rotations. A lot of the girls were playing in their secondary roles and they had a really great attitude which helped to get the job done”, Cantwell said.

A standout performer was Monique DeMatteo, who played her best game for the club since debuting this year.

Cantwell was very impressed with her game, stating “she presented really well at the footy, she had a lot of repeat efforts and was a lot cleaner than the other players on the field which makes a huge difference”.

Mollie Emond was also a standout, running on the wing and carrying the ball down to the forward half with 23 disposals. Joining her in another great game was captain Caitlin Bunker, racking up 20 disposals and presenting herself well around the ground.

50 gamer Nicole Hales also had an outstanding game, setting herself up well behind the ball and stopping the opponents from scoring. On the other end of the ground, Matilda Zander was unstoppable, with two impressive goals and 17 disposals for the game.

With a bye next weekend, the team are looking forward to a much needed break and will return to take on Carlton in round six. The match details are to be confirmed for round six and beyond.

Collingwood 5.12 (42)

Port Melbourne 3.3 (21)

Goals

Collingwood: Zander 2, Chaston, Dojiok, Smith

Port Melbourne: Houtsma, Joyce, Peterson

Best

Collingwood: DeMatteo, Emond, Bunker, Hales, Zander, Chaston

Port Melbourne: Barton, O’Keefe, Peterson, Locke, Dyett, Davie