Collingwood has advanced through to its first VFLW Grand Final after defeating the Southern Saints by 14 points in Sunday’s preliminary final at Adcon Stadium.

It was clear there was a lot on the line for the two sides as they both came out firing providing a strong contest from the very start.

But it was the Magpies’ ability to get the game on their terms and maintain strong pressure that ultimately saw them win the game.

With consistent intent, the minor premiers used smart ball movement and were strong to hit targets down the field.

Strong physicality combined with great teamwork allowed the Pies to protect each other around the contest and go hard at the ball to gain possession.

Having booted three majors in the second quarter, the Pies took an 11-point lead at the main break.

But the Saints fought back hard in the third, limiting the Pies to a goalless term. Emma Mackie claimed another goal for the Saints that brought back the margin to five points.

Returning for the final quarter, tensions were high. Chloe Molloy slotted a goal midway through the term before Molly McDonald was quick to respond, booting another for the Saints.

But a major from Jaimee Lambert at the 17-minute mark would ultimately seal the deal, allowing the Pies to claim victory, 7.5 (47) and 5.3 (33).

 

AFLW Magpie, Brittany Bonnici was pleased her team’s hard work had finally paid off.

"After the AFLW seasons and VFLW season last year, we're finally getting a taste of what it's like and I can't wait,” Bonnici told collingwoodfc.com.au.

In her first season of VFLW, 18-year-old Nicola Xenos also said she felt lucky to be a part of the side and is looking forward to the opportunity that lies ahead next weekend.

“I know these games don’t come around often so when they do, it’s always really good to get the win and everyone’s just so excited,” Xenos said post-match.

“It's a pretty surreal feeling and I can't put it into words at the moment.”

Jaimee Lambert again proved why she’s the league’s leading goal-kicker having piled three majors on the scoreboard.

Brit Bonnici and Bri Davey were also strong through the midfield providing great assistance around the contest, while Sharni Layton was also solid in the ruck.

Magpie defender, Stacey Livingstone took several intercept marks and used her long kick to boot the ball to the Pies’ forwards.

While the Saints were consistently applying pressure throughout the match, they struggled to combat the Pies’ strong leads particularly in their forward 50. 

As the loss sees out the Saints’ season, the Pies will now prepare for the biggest game of the year.

They’ll face the Western Bulldogs in the 2019 Swisse Wellness VFL Women’s Grand Final next Sunday, 22 September at Ikon Park.

Stayed tuned across collingwoodfc.com.au and our social media channels for more information regarding the Grand Final.

 

Collingwood           2.1     5.1     5.3   7.5  (47)
Southern Saints     2.2     3.2     4.2   5.3  (33)

Goals - Collingwood:  Lambert 3, Xenos, Lee, Lagioia, Molloy
Southern Saints: Shierlaw, Greiser, Guttridge, Mackie, Mcdonald

Best - Collingwood:  Lambert, Davey, Lagioia, Layton, Livingstone, Bonnici
Southern Saints: Phillips, Fitzpatrick, McDonald, Mackie, O’Neill, Shannon