Round nine of the 2024 Women’s SunCable Barkly Australian Football League (BAFL) delivered a weekend of gripping football action, highlighted by a narrow victory for Epenarra in a low-scoring affair and significant shifts in the men’s competition standings.
The women’s match between Epenarra and the Spitfires was a classic defensive showdown. Both teams struggled to make an impact on the scoreboard, with neither side managing a goal in the first quarter. The Spitfires were unable to break their scoreless streak in the first half, facing a daunting challenge as they trailed by a narrow margin.
Epenarra’s captain Deborah Dickenson, alongside teammates Sophie Lewis and Sheeneal Bailey, delivered standout performances, helping their side maintain a slim lead. By halftime, the game was still in the balance with only two goals on the board. Marcia Peterson was strong with three goals for the match.
The Spitfires began to mount a comeback in the third term, scoring one goal and two behinds while limiting the Saints to a single point. The deficit was reduced to just eight points, offering a glimmer of hope for the Spitfires. However, the Saints managed to secure a late goal in the final quarter, putting the result beyond reach and securing the victory.
Despite the loss, Thalia Kelly of the Spitfires was recognised as one of the best on the ground for her exceptional performance.
In round 10 of the men’s division, the Spitfires made a significant move towards the top of the ladder with a decisive win over Elliott, while Ali Curung's impressive performance dealt a blow to Elliott’s top spot aspirations.
Kane Sevallos, recently named best on ground for the CAFL representative team, played a pivotal role for the Spitfires with a four-goal haul against BWC. He was well-supported by Myles Fitz, who combined effectively to challenge BWC. The midfield dominance of John Norman, along with vice-captain Lachlan Dunemann’s precise handballing, ensured a steady flow of entries into the attacking zone, further pressuring the Hawks.
Anthony Lake also made a notable impact, kicking two goals, while Nigel Small and Alvin Williams of BWC (Barkly Work Camp) each contributed two goals, keeping their side in the contest.
The game saw Elliott and Ali Curung locked in a fierce battle, with the Hawks falling short. This result jeopardises their hold on the top position, with the possibility of dropping from first place in the coming weeks.
Ali Curung’s Jerome Haines was instrumental in their victory, kicking three goals, and Lucas Martin added two more. Nicky Poulson’s season-long form continued to impress, playing a key role in the team’s success.
Elliott had several opportunities to regain the lead in the final quarter but failed to capitalise, a stark contrast to their usual proficiency in scoring. Despite solid performances from vice-captain Kendrick Albert and Kurt Raymond, who kicked three goals, Elliott could not secure the win.
In another thrilling match, YDU climbed into third place with a commanding victory over the Epenarra Saints. Lexavia Anderson and Richie Anderson were exceptional, facilitating effective ball movement and creating numerous scoring opportunities that helped YDU to a total of 108 points. Ishmael Nandy and Eliah Billy-Joe continued their impressive form as forwards, contributing significantly to the scoreline.
Lindsay Turner, true to his standout form this season, earned best on ground honours for the Saints, scoring two goals and demonstrating his key role in their offensive efforts.
