The Pinjarra Tigers’ women’s team carved their name into the Peel Football and Netball League’s history books with a win over South Mandurah in their first ever game on Saturday night.
Taking to the field for round one of the inaugural PFNL Women’s (PFNLW) competition, it was all black and gold as Pinjarra stormed to an emphatic 1.3 (9) to 8.11 (59) win under lights at Falcon Oval.
Sisters Courtney and Brittany Fabry were outstanding for the visitors, winning a huge amount of clearances in the middle of the ground and constantly driving the ball forward.
Pinjarra looked lethal early when they booted the night’s first two goals through Krystal Lema and Lisa Dubberlin, but consistent efforts from Rakita Bennell saw Souths back in the contest.
The midfielder was exceptional both in the air and at ground level, but her hard work went unrewarded with Abby Irvine bagging Pinjarra’s third.
But staring at a three-goal deficit in the second quarter didn’t phase South Mandurah, who worked extremely hard to get consecutive inside 50s late in the term.
Caitlyn Rintoul took a mark and burst through the middle of the ground to drive the ball forward, but Pinjarra repelled the attack.
It wasn’t until right on the cusp of half time that April McPherson, who was brilliant across the four quarters, broke through for a goal.
McPherson’s impressive performance was made more awe-inspiring given she spent the day competing at the WA Junior Surfing Titles.
Her late major saw Souths cut the lead to 18 just before half time, but Jesse Salter struck early to blow it back out beyond four goals.
Jessica Hunnam showed some good signs in defence for the Falcons, but Pinjarra was in cruise control by the fourth quarter.
The Tigers dominated time in forward half and piled three extra goals onto their lead by the end of the match.
Pinjarra remains on the road next weekend, as they travel to take on Baldivis who picked up a huge win over Dwellingup in their first ever match earlier today.
The Brumbies dominated the day, finishing in front 0.1 (1) to 12.16 (88).
South Mandurah will look for their first win when they hit the road to face Dwellingup on Saturday.
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
