Women's A Grade - Report by Torben-Fink-Jensen
11 Essendon vs 9 Monash players meant a stronger Monash team than the last time we played, when we raced into a strong lead but let Monash come back before closing out.
Tonight, Essendon were on the board pretty quickly with Bene getting a run into goals and shooting into the corner.
Monash equalised soon after with a CF goal, but Essendon stayed on top for the rest of the quarter with Mietta (with 2) and Alex scoring for a 4-1 lead.
The 2nd quarter didn't start too well with a missed penalty for Essendon which led onto a scoreless quarter despite plenty of trying. Monash came back with 2 goals bringing the game down to a single goal 4-3.
Essendon were out to make amends in the 3rd quarter and they played with a lot more intent. Gen was able to score her trademark CF "hold and shoot" shot. Bene also had a good goal from close and Mietta managed a long shot into the corner - 7-4
With a 3 goal lead at 3qtr time, we were hoping for another smooth quarter to take us home but when Monash managed 3 goals to even the game up with 2 minutes to go, the game was locked at 7-7. Luckily Essendon chose now to put the pressure back on with a long pass to Gen heading into the corner and a 1 goal lead. Monash had one more attack which petered out leaving Essendon only required to hold the ball for the last 30 seconds. But Kate had other ideas and threw to Emmy who swam upfield and threw a long-range shot. It beat the keeper but not the crossbar, landing in front of the keeper with 15 seconds still to go! Luckily Gen was alert and swum through and grabbed the ball just before the keeper and pushed it through 9-7 win.
PS: Photos by Mietta's boyfriend Angus who took a crash course in my camera while I did the scoring on behalf of both teams! (Editors note: Which will be published when Lisa returns, promise!)
Essendon defeated Monash : 9 - 7 Goals : Gen 3, Mietta 3, Bene 2, Alex 1
Women's B Grade - Report by Libby Toovey
After a tough and grueling loss last week, Essendon dusted themselves off and put up a fight against Monash. In a tight, see-sawing game, both Essendon and Monash had many chances to score, but the goal posts got in their way! Essendon defended well in the first half, led by Sheridan and the hard swimming of Taryn and Polina. Monash were only able to put 3 goals passed Sandra 'Inspector Gadget' Mink-Grobbe to half time, who saved many certain goals.
Although the whole team was fierce and determined in defence, Essendon struggled to score. Georgia had a few unlucky shots skim the top of the post, but scored a well deserved goal in the 3rd quarter. Sally fired one in late to end the game 7-2 in favor of Monash. A very gallant effort from Essendon, who continue to improve each week! Go Bombers!
Essendon were defeated by Monash : 2 - 7 Goals : Georgia 1, Sally 1
Men's C Grade - Report by Sam Brown
In a thrilling matchup against NYP Dragons, Essendon showcased both resilience and sportsmanship, securing a well-earned 14-7 victory. Despite the Dragons starting the game a player down in the first quarter, the team upheld their values by competing as if their opponents had a full squad—demonstrating true respect while maintaining dominance.
Lee led the charge as the evening’s main goal scorer, though special mention goes to his true nemesis: the goal crossbar. Callum and Vincent impressed with their lightning-fast counterattacks, proving to be invaluable assets. Meanwhile, Paul Hunter and his cousins formed a formidable offensive and defensive trio, scoring six goals between them.
Hayden made an entrance in the second quarter, flying in all the way from the west side to show how it's done. Liam, Marcus, and Andrew also played key roles, keeping the team moving forward while maintaining their composure under pressure. The goal keeping wasn't bad either despite an own goal by yours truly!
From the outset, Essendon was relentless, applying pressure on both ends of the pool. As the game progressed, their structure and communication improved exponentially, leading to more cohesive play and well-coordinated attacks. While the Dragons found opportunities to break through, Essendon remained composed, ensuring the match never turned into a one-sided affair—for either team.
This game was not just a testament to Essendon's skill but also to their integrity, adaptability, and determination—qualities that will serve them well as the season continues.
Essendon defeated the NYP Dragons : 14 - 7 Goals : Callum 1, Ambrose 3, Liam 1, Vincent 2, Lee 4, Ryan 3.
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