Strong second half powers Railways to victory over North Albany in GSFLW preliminary final

Railways shrugged off a persistent North Albany on Friday night to book their place in the Great Southern Football League Women’s grand final. The Tigers finished the regular season as minor premiers, and after being challenged by the Kangas early in the preliminary final, they found the answers in attack after half-time to record a 22-point win. There wasn’t a goal kicked in a tough first half at Tigerland and the home side held a six-point advantage before taking control of the game in the third term. The Tigers kicked three goals to one in the third and opened up a 17-point lead. The Kangas booted their second major in the final quarter but the Tigers added two of their own to secure a second straight grand final appearance. Tiarna Delli-Benedetti was crucial for the winners with two majors, while Evie Brenton-Reed, Saskia McDonald and Ella Scamozzi were all goal kickers in the 5.8 (38) to 2.4 (16) triumph. Tall utility Mereana Wynne and major ball winner Kathryn Slattery were highly influential for the Tigers, while Scamozzi and Abby Duncan also had vital roles. The Kangas produced a gallant performance in the final to end a strong 2022 campaign but couldn’t find enough avenues to goal. Captain Laura Archer led from the front with another outstanding display while Darcie Oreo, Kate Minter and Louise Quartermaine were named in the best players for the visitors. Oreo and Jacinta De Brito were the Kangas’ goal kickers. The Tigers now progress to the decider this Friday, where they face Denmark-Walpole in their bid to win a maiden GSFLW premiership.