Hawthorn’s VFLW team has defeated Collingwood by 12 points in its first practice match of the pre-season at Box Hill City Oval on Saturday.
The Magpies kicked the first goal of the game in the opening moments before the Hawks worked their way back to take a slender one-point lead into the first break.
The Hawks momentum continued in an impressive second term as recruit Tayla Kearns and Emily Gilder proved dangerous around goal.
Premiership player Tamara Luke was a notable performer with her aerial supremacy a stand-out, while defender Ali Dowler was also important in fending off multiple forward entries.
A dour second half saw both sides struggle to provide much scoreboard pressure.
Instead, it was the Hawks’ defensive intent that stood out as Collingwood was simply unable to make its way back into the game.
Youngster Lily Kelly, another new recruit for the side, was prominent, demonstrating her ability to take a strong mark up forward.
Kelly spoke post-match of her excitement at running out alongside her new teammates.
“It was a really good hit-out,” Kelly said.
“It was my second time in the brown and gold and it felt really good to get back out there.
“The coaches wanted me to focus on my leading and marking.”
Hawthorn will now turn its attention to Essendon as the pair prepare to face off at RAMS Arena, Craigieburn, on Saturday at 12pm.
The Hawks will then have one more practice match against the Casey Demons on April 27 before their season opener against NT Thunder on May 12.
