Female Academy matches a huge success

It was a landmark day for female footy at Lakeside Oval on Saturday as the U18 Youth Girls and Open Women represented the Sydney Swans and the GWS GIANTS for the first time in Academy history.

The Swans finished over the top of their opponents in the Open Women’s meeting to get home by 8-points in a low-scoring affair.

The Swans kicked three unanswered goals to steal victory in the shadows of fulltime 5.8 (38) to 4.6. (30).

The GIANTS were able to turn the tables in the U18s, defeating the Swans 12.9 (81) to 1.3 (9).

Jessica Stramandinoli had a field day booting five goals while Jacqueline Gay chipped in with three.

“It was a really exciting day seeing the Swans and Giants regions go against each other in female matches for the very first time, just like the males have been doing over the last few years,” Female Football High Performance Coach Tim Schmidt said.

“The skill level was fantastic and we’ve got loads to look forward to in the upcoming national carnivals and state games.”

Earlier in the day, a goal from Liam Maze on the siren was enough for the QBE Sydney Swans Academy to edge the PM Capital GIANTS Academy in a thriller.

Nathan Cooper’s (Pennant Hills) three goals were crucial in setting up the 1-point win for the Swans, while Jacob Turner (Temora) played a starring role for the GIANTS with three goals of his own.

The 8.7 (55) to 8.6 (54) result means the Swans now lead the best of three series 2-0.

It was a little more one-sided in the U16s as the GIANTS won by 36-points.

Jai Reed (Narooma) was a constant threat kicking six goals in the 16.6 (102) to 10.6 (66) GIANTS triumph.

The Giants now hold a 2-0 advantage in the U16 series.

For more on our Female Talent Program click here or to play with your local club this year visit play.afl