ERWFL REVIEW & PREVIEW

By Alyce Collett

Most of the Eastern Region Women’s competition had a bye last weekend, and so this weekend brings an interesting set of matches that could play a big part in determining the way the ladders finish come the end of the season. 

After pulling off a fantastic win last round, Mt Evelyn will be looking to build on that confidence and grab another win when they take on Vermont this weekend.

Last time these two sides met, Mt Evelyn were the winners by 10 points.

Despite the great win last round, Mt Evelyn can’t afford to rest on their laurels just yet. They are currently in 4^th place, but only percentage is keeping them ahead of 5^th placed Donvale.

In Division One, Upwey Tecoma are up against Waverley Blues. With their place in finals secured, it is a case of trying to win as many of their last few games as possible to finish as high as possible on the ladder. 

They are currently a game behind each of the sides in 2^nd and 3^rd place, so depending on percentage could jump to 2^nd.

Things are a little bit different in the Outer East Division. While the rest of the comp had a rest last weekend, there was in fact one game played, and after a great win the previous weekend, Thornton – Eildon had a reality check against Healesville.

After a scoreless first term, Thornton – Eildon continued to struggle to score, with Healesville winning by 56 points.

Healesville had six individual goalkickers. Dannielle Jones kicked three, Katie Lamb kicked two, while Holly Estcourt, Candice Martin, Jaimee Petersen and Alexandra Bryan each kicked singles.

Meanwhile for the defeated, Yolanda Vinycomb and Natasha Hay each kicked one goal.

The games coming up this weekend in the Outer East Division could play a big part in determining the final ladder positions and who plays finals. 

Coming up this weekend it is 2^nd vs 3^rd, with Monbulk taking on Yarra Junction, and 5^th vs 6^th, with Belgrave and Upwey Tecoma squaring off.

Although Yarra Junction can’t catch Monbulk on the ladder, a win would still be vital for the Eagles. Although not likely, if they do lose all three games, they could drop out of finals, depending on other results. On the other hand, if they win one of their last three games, their place in the finals is secured.

Monbulk haven’t done much wrong this season, and for the last few weeks of the season will be preparing for finals and could have a hand in shaping how the ladder finishes.

There’s no beating around the bush, both Belgrave and Upwey Tecoma are desperate for a win, and despite their dismal records neither side are out of finals contention yet. Results would have to go their way, but it is still possible.

The sides have met twice this season, with the ledger at one win apiece. Belgrave took the win in round one, but Upwey Tecoma won the return ledger in round six.