Wildcats return to winning ways

Woodside's Open Women's side has strengthened its grip on a finals berth after returning to the winners' list with a hard-fought 3.12 (30) to 1.2 (8) victory over MDU.

The Wildcats shared the honours in the opening quarter, with both sides locked at 1.1 (7), before Woodside gradually asserted its authority. Despite inaccurate kicking in front of goal, the home side kept MDU scoreless through the second and final quarters, building a steady lead at every change to claim an impressive 22-point victory.

Woodside coach Amanda Hancock said the win was an important one as the side edges closer to securing a finals position.

"It was a great win and we now feel confident we've cemented a spot in the finals," Hancock said.

"We were able to put some good minutes into our first-year players, which was really pleasing."

While the Wildcats finished with 3.12 on the scoreboard, Hancock said improving goal conversion remains a focus.

"We continue to show an area of improvement being our goal conversion. We work on it each week and will continue to do so and know that the goals will come."

Stephanie Rossetti was among Woodside's best after making a flying start to the contest.

"Steph Rossetti had a fantastic start to the game and really set the scene for us," Hancock said.

She also praised Annie Head's performance on the wing, saying she "played with a perfect amount of aggression", while Demi Godenzi worked tirelessly around the ground to create attacking opportunities before being rewarded with a goal.

Lydia Trotta also impressed after being moved forward, kicking a goal and providing a new target inside 50.

"Lydia gave us a different look in the forward line and we look forward to using her down there again," Hancock said.

In a strong display of sportsmanship, Woodside loaned three players to MDU each quarter to ensure the match could be played with even numbers.

Kara Askew, Laura Jonston, Manawa Apiata, Lexie Francis, Lydia Trotta and Stephanie Rossetti were named Woodside's best players, while goals came from Trotta, Jonston and Godenzi.

The Wildcats now turn their attention to Sunday's home clash against Nar Nar Goon, where they will celebrate NAIDOC Week with a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony led by a female Elder before the match.