Emu Park are the first team into the Rockhampton Rugby League open women’s grand final after their stirring win over minor premiers Wallabys. DETAILS HERE.
They backed up their 16-nil win over Rockhampton Brothers in week one to record a 22-nil win over minor premiers Wallabys on Saturday at Browne Park.
The Emus now have a week off, while Brothers and Wallabys battle for the remaining place in the grand final.
Victorious coach Jason Field was “over the moon” about the result, in which the Emus ran in five tries.
Hooker Sarah Field shone with her hard-hitting defence and attacking flair.
Hooker Sarah Field was a leading light in attack and defence for Emu Park.
Shanae Sait off the bench was outstanding, so too teen trio Mackayla Oakley, Lyndsey Major-Booth and Lilly Field.
Jason said he could not have asked for a much better performance from his team.
“I’m ecstatic with the way the girls played, and I’m super excited for them to be through to the grand final,” he said.
See the photos from Saturday’s semi-final here
“They’re a very big team, Wallabys, and they’ve got some key players but our girls just hung in there at the start and their fitness came through at the end.
“I thought they completed well and defensively they were strong, even against the bigger girls.”
Jason said his team was playing its best football at the right time of the season.
“They’ve really stood up so it’s been a great effort,” he said.
Caitlin Saunders goes in for her second try in Emu Park’s 22-nil win over Wallabys.
“Last week was a tough, physical game against Brothers and probably the best game of ladies football I’ve seen in a very long time.
“I think that win gave them a lot of confidence.
“They rallied well and their ability to scramble in defence was excellent and they did the same again today (against Wallabys).”
Jason said the week off would be a good chance for several of his players to get over some niggling injuries.
“It just allows us to freshen up and prepare well… and we’re going to be very strong coming into the GF,” he said.
“Whichever team makes it through is going to be a definite threat and I think whoever turns up on the day can win. That’s how close it is.”
