Tara Murray
The Suns have exceeded their own expectations early in the Western Football League women’s season.
The only new team in the women’s competition, the Suns have shown early on they could be a contender, having knocked off the previously undefeated Werribee Centrals.
Suns coach Leanne Meyer said she’s thrilled with how things have gone so far.
“We’ve got players from various clubs and players that have never played before,” she said. “They are getting to know each other which is one thing and then learning to play football with each other is another.
“It’s about finding the strengths and weaknesses. It has been great.”
With a 5-2 record, Meyer, who previously coached Point Cook Centrals in the competition, said she had been surprised by their start.
She said with having one division, it opens up opportunities from players of all abilities to get their opportunities.
“The wins are a reward for the girls, but we just want to go out there and play football and play it in the right way,” she said.
“We’ve got a big playing squad. At times we’ll give some of the lesser established players some more opportunities to upskill while some of the more experienced players have a rest.
“Having high numbers and being able to upskill is a real positive.”
Meyer said while she would like the side to play finals, the first focus for the group was to ensure that they continue to grow as a group.
“On and off field we’re looking to build on that connection,” she said. “You don’t have anything without connection.
“We know that we could create our own narrative this year. For everyone we need to build the connection and make sure that it doesn’t end here as we have a few results.
“But yes, I would like to make finals.”
The Suns faced Wyndhamvale.
It was another bit win for the Suns, winning 19.10 (124)-2.2 (14).
Mandy Seath kicked six goals for the Suns, while Madeline Johnson kicked five. Johnson was named best on ground.
For the Falcons, Rachael Burton was named their best.
Meyers said it could be a local rivalry that is built and is expecting another challenge.
The Suns sit second and Wyndhamvale is in seventh.
In other matches, Werribee Centrals claimed the points after Parkside Spurs forfeited, Caroline Springs had a 150 point win against Laverton and Yarraville Seddon had a big win against North Sunshine.
