Waves’ effort pays off

Mel De Bruin battles it out with her opponent. 157727 Pictures: PATRICK CALLOW

Women’s Div 1 – Surfside Waves 1 d Kardinia 0
ACCOMPLISHED football and an outstanding effort, with all players playing for each other led to a well deserved win.
From the first whistle to the last, the Waves played their best football of the season, starting with Madi Wilding making great decisions and key saves, plus playing the ball out from the back when opportunity arose.
Cath Sattler is settling in to the sweeper role and never really looked in trouble, helped by the competent back line, speedsters Kate Elstone, Emma Riley, plus Emily Russell up from the Division 2 team, kept the Kardinia wide players contained.
Neisha Pearson lifted yet again, showing great timing and skill, often starting attacks from the back. The midfield was firing again, Gina Murphy marshalling the players, creating plays and hitting the bar from a free kick was outstanding.
Jordan Tabakovic brought her run and carry, laying the ball off for wingers Grace Cotter, Faye Kendall, as skilful as ever, Allana Gillbee showing her tricks, creating space and good passing to the front two of Alexis Pearson and Melissa De Bruin, whose effort to pressure the Kardinia back line led to turnovers on many occasions.
This combination of pressure and great passing led to a great cross from Pearson, finished beautifully by Cotter at the 28-minute mark.
In the second half, Maddie Hill joined the game and added an extra dimension to the right midfield with great throws and intelligent play.