Round 16 of the 2024 TIO Central Australian Football League (CAFL) showcased some thrilling matchups with multiple upsets recorded over both divisions.
In a tightly contested game, Alkamilya snatched victory from second-placed West with a decisive late goal. The match was a nail-biter, with the largest margin throughout being just two points. Despite West having more scoring shots, Alkamilya's midfielders Rachel Davine, Tiffany Tregea, and Renae James dominated the ball, maintaining efficiency and composure.
Goals were at a premium, with only nine goals scored in total. West's Tamika Rumpff and Lumyai Eager played crucial roles in the midfield, and captain Kaitlyn Armstrong managed to kick all four of West’s goals. However, the forward line struggled with accuracy, registering six behinds.
Alkamilya's Liana Fraser proved pivotal, kicking two goals that ultimately secured a narrow two-point victory for her team.
The Rovers reinforced their position at the top of the ladder with a decisive win over Pioneer. The Eagles had an early advantage, leading by five points at quarter-time and by a single point at halftime. However, the Rovers turned the game around in the third quarter with a burst of two goals to one behind, thanks to Ebony Abbott-McCormack and Brylee Kerrin’s contributions.
Pioneer could not respond, managing only a behind in the final term. Rovers’ Doreena Hansen was outstanding, showing strong contested work in midfield and contributing a goal. Paparauwhare Motuhinau played a significant role, and captain Lara Harding demonstrated excellent leadership with a goal. Despite Pioneer’s Bella Foster and Ella Fitz putting in commendable performances, they could not turn the tide.
Federal achieved their second win of the season with a dominant performance at Albrecht Oval. Jayde Imber and Danika McDonald were the stars of the match, each kicking five goals. Charlotte Rudd and Hayley Baliva, typically known for their midfield roles, also excelled forward, adding two goals each to the tally.
South's captain Nakaiya Clarke remained a key influence for her team, but the day belonged to Federal as they showcased their attacking prowess.
In the Men’s, Pioneer suffered a scare as the Rovers put them to the sword in an exciting clash.
The Rovers were quick to jump the Eagles with a four goal first term, before Pioneer answered back in the second tying it all up at halftime. It wasn't long until the Eagles showed why are in second place with a rapid fire seven goals in the second half to just five for the Rovers.
For Pioneer, the usual suspects stepped up when it mattered most with Kane Sevallos, captain Cheyne Miles, Marcus McDonald, and Matt Campbell all playing a significant role, being composed with the footy.
However, Rover’s Travis King and Eric Campbell threatened to blow the game wide open, with three goals each that could have easily been more.
Souths have dealt a massive blow to ladder leaders Federal with a very convincing win at Albrecht Oval.
In a result that no one saw coming, captain Michael Tilmouth-Tuner was phenomenal with Jesiah Minor also playing to a new level. But for Souths, they had one of the most complete team performances on the weekend, which has exposed Federal in a big way ahead of the finals in just a couple of weeks.
Federal’s Abraham Ankers has remained one of the favourites for the Minahan Medal with another four-goal performance with Ben Durkin.
