VFLW Round 9 Match Report: Hawks fall to Falcons

Box Hill has endured its third loss of the season against Darebin, succombing by eight points at home. The wet-weather match posed a challenge for both teams in adapting to the constant change in conditions.

The Hawks faced a tough start to the game, where the team struggled to penetrate into their forward 50. With difficulty in maintaining possession, Box Hill was unable to advance on the scoreboard early in this term.

It was Rosie Dillon who got the ball rolling late in the quarter, snapping and bending a miraculous goal from 30 metres out.

In similar fashion, Caitlin Thorne secured the Hawks’ second major from a similar spot shortly after, finishing the first with a seven-point advantage.

As the rain ramped up in the second term, the Hawks endured a goalless quarter. The team grappled to maintain effective possessions but were unable to make an impact on the scoreboard.

Box Hill once again struggled to score in the third quarter, playing another quiet term which allowed Darebin to creep ahead and take the lead. Much like earlier in the match, the Hawks kept possession in their forward half for the majority of time but were unable to capitalise on opportunities.

A devastating loss for Box Hill in the third saw Rosie Dillon suffer a suspected leg injury after a ground ball collision. The incident resulted in a break in play, where Dillon was escorted off the ground and didn’t return for the rest of the match.

With the rain and wind intensifying in the fourth quarter, the Hawks were again unable to adjust to these changes in conditions. Darebin took advantage of Box Hill’s inability to adapt to the weather, scoring a goal mid-way through the term and ultimately sealing the deal for the away team.

AFLW key forward Sophie Butterworth kicked a notable goal late in the fourth, soccering the ball twice off the ground in transition. Unfortunately for the Hawks, this was not enough to get the team over the line.

Despite Box Hill winning in all key stats, Darebin was able to take advantage of their opportunities more effectively throughout the match.

A notable takeaway from the day was the performance from VFLW co-vice captain Nadia von Bertouch. The star player performed a stellar come back after missing the majority of the season through injury. The skilful defender finished the match as the Hawks’ highest disposal winner, racking up 18 touches and three clearances.

Box Hill will now set their sights to play Carlton next week at IKON Park.

Box Hill:        2.1          2.3          2.3          3.4          (22)

Darebin:       1.0          2.2          3.5          4.6           (30)

Best: Thorne, von Bertouch, Spamer, McLinden

Goals: Dillon, Thorne, Butterworth

Disposals: von Bertouch (18), Thorne (16), Spamer (16), McLinden (16), Deed (15)