Hawthorn’s VFLW side has continued its undefeated start to 2018, with a close seven-point win over Casey at Casey Fields.
It was a heated four-quarter contest, as the hosts fiercely defended as they sought their first win of the season after a bye in Round 1.
A quick goal from Gilder saw the Hawks hit the scoreboard first, but this was accompanied with relentless pressure from the Dees. Despite several opportunities inside 50, Hawthorn were unable to capitalize in front of goal, which led to a couple of missed opportunities. It was neck and neck, as the visitors headed into quarter time with a narrow three-point lead.
Casey claimed momentum early into the second quarter with back-to-back goals. The Hawks struggled to hit their targets with a lack of efficiency by foot, which led to the multiple inside 50s for the Demons. Hawthorn’s midfield and defence worked hard to control the ball, but were unable to gain clean possession. Whilst the goals dried up, the defensive efforts of skipper Emma Mackie provided a vital platform to lead the Hawks into a stronger second half.
Hawthorn’s third term saw an inspired comeback, with dangerous forward Sarah Perkins claiming four marks within 15 minutes and converting one into a goal. The midfield looked more polished, as the Hawks kept the Dees goalless and reduced the margin to two points at the final break.
Read: VFL match report Round 6
Mackie kicked off the final term with an early goal to put the Hawks in front.
Despite strong defensive pressure from the Dees, Claire Dyett also capitalised on her opportunity to extend the margin.
It was a heart-stopping race to the end as the Dees kept the ball in their forward half. They weren’t able to find the goals however, as the final siren sounded with the scoreboard in Hawthorn's favour, 4.7(31) to 3.6(24).
The Hawks play their first home game next week at Box Hill City Oval, with a VFL double-header against Carlton.
Casey 1.0 3.3 3.3 3.6 24
Hawthorn 1.3 1.3 2.7 4.7 31
GOALS
Hawthorn: Gilder, Perkins, Mackie, Dyett
Casey: Guglielmino, Phillips, Clayton
BEST
Hawthorn: Perera, Mackie, Perkins, Van Dyk, Nixon, Wotton
Casey: Smith, Emonson, Guttridge, Shevlin
