By David Nagel
A stunning seven-goal performance from youngster Aiesha Kolaritsch has propelled Pakenham to a thumping 14.14(98) to 0.1(1) victory over Berwick Springs at Toomuc Reserve on Saturday.
The Lions – still smarting from their round-one loss to Upwey-Tecoma – came out snarling in the first quarter with speedster Tianah Vandesteeg and left-footer Kayla Wilson converting some great play from further up the ground.
Spring-heeled Sarah Ventura was dominating the ruck, with midfielders Chloe Nagel, Courtney Stephens, Bianca Moody, Kate Green and Sarah Connelly playing some direct footy; giving the Lions’ forward line plenty of open looks.
The Lions led by 17 points at quarter time, which extended to 44 at the main break after a four-goal second term.
Kolaritsch and Nagel booted two each in the second quarter, with Kolaritsch kicking two more in the third – and Vandesteeg another – to open up a 64-point lead at the final change of ends.
Kolaritsch booted three more in the final term, while Emily Johnston and Nagel also kicked six-pointers to finish off a great morning for the Lions.
Coach Rick Stalker was a happy coach as he addressed his players after the match.
“The thing that stood out today was our connection, we played for each other and shared the ball around nicely,” Stalker said.
“There’s still plenty of room for improvement, but you should all be proud of the way you attacked the footy today.”
Kolaritsch was clearly best on ground with her seven goals, while Nagel with three and Vandesteeg with two were the other multiple contributors.
Jess George, Tameka Youn and skipper Tracey McMinimee were best for Berwick Springs.
In other games this week, Healesville remain the only unbeaten side after a hard-fought eight-point victory over Upwey-Tecoma, while reigning premier Olinda Ferny Creek scored a 14-point win over Belgrave.
Olivia Edwards kicked three for the winners, while Lily Carlin, Vanessa Bateman and Kyah Barry were also influential figures in the win.
Round 3 Fixture: Anzac Day: HEALESVILLE (1) v Berwick Springs (5), UPWEY-TECOMA (3) v Olinda-Ferny Creek (4). Saturday: PAKENHAM (2) v Belgrave (6).
