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Rams back to No.1 on GNFLW ladder

Reuben CarderGeraldton Guardian
Northampton player Julia Teakle, 17, and Cara Hasleby team up for the Rams.
Camera IconNorthampton player Julia Teakle, 17, and Cara Hasleby team up for the Rams. Credit: Supplied

The two best women’s teams in the Great Northern league this season kept up their winning ways over the weekend, pulling well away from the chasing pack.

Northampton retook the lead on Saturday after just one round away from the top of the table, taking a wafer-thin lead over Chapman Valley on percentage in what’s shaping up to be a thrilling season.

Northampton booted their way to a 22-goal home win against the Rovers, with Julia Teakle, Hannah Trusso and Katie Croston each grabbing four and 14-year-old Tiani Teakle, Julia’s younger sister, getting three.

Larissa Bennell made the goal kickers and best lists.
Camera IconLarissa Bennell made the goal kickers and best lists. Credit: Supplied

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The game ended 22.6 (138) to 1.0 (6). Valley — beaten to the premiership by a three-point margin last season — scored a stunning nine-goal win over at Mazzuchelli Oval against the Brigades, their grand final opponents, the game ending 9.7 (61) to 1.1 (7).

Northampton Rams president Damien Harris said the women’s competition was a great addition to the league.

Harris said the club were enjoying the football.

“It’s given an injection of new energy,” he said.

President Grant Woodhams was clear about the club’s ambitions, saying a top-two spot was squarely in the Royals’ sights.

He said Emma Scally was key as his side succeeded in their tough assignment as she scored a major and made the best list.

“It was a good performance,” Woodhams said after watching the game.

“Obviously we’re hoping we finish top two and play in the grand final, that’s absolutely the ambition.

“Certainly the best player on the field stood out, that was Emma.

“She’s a classical player, all over the place, in the forward and back line, in the middle.

“She’s a very, very dominant player, and brings a lot of run to the game and a lot of skill.”

Both teams are on 32 points and almost evenly matched, with Northampton slightly ahead on both goals for and against.

The third-placed Brigades are on 20 points.

Valley play newcomers Mullewa in the next round while Northampton have a bye.

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