Source: cbrpigskinreview.com
4.00pm – TERRITORY BOWL – Central Spears (4-0) v Diamonds (2-2)
The highlight of the ACT Women’s Gridiron League season, the Territory Bowl, is almost here.
These two teams met in the only Territory Bowl played to date (back in 2014) and it was won on that occasion by the Central Spears 28-20 (I believe anyway – I couldn’t find the score on the ACT Gridiron site).
These two teams have really formed a healthy and competitive rivalry – and although it has all been one-way traffic so far (the Central Spears women have NEVER been beaten) the games have always been hard fought and entertaining. I hope that both of these teams are able to build on this to further grow the Women’s league in the territory.
The Diamonds have had a fair run of injuries this season – QB Sarah Butterworth didn’t start the last match (and I believe didn’t start in the Diamonds Sydney match against the UNSW Raiders) while on the defensive side of the ball, powerhouse D Lineman Tracey Stuart limped off injured against the Tornadoes a few weeks ago and we did not see her in action last week. Scoring points has been the Diamonds’ number 1 problem all year – their only TD to date coming in the forfeit match against the Tornadoes in Round 3. Word coming out of the Diamonds camp this week is that they are keen to see what that feels like again.
The Spears, on the other hand, have had a consistent (and yet again, unbeaten) season. 2017 has unearthed a future Spears superstar in Katie Williams, whom alongside Dani De Groot and Mel Rowland are forming the core of a dynasty for this young and powerful Spears outfit. And as good as the Spears offence has been (and believe me, they’ve been good) here’s a shoutout to the Spears D who haven’t let in one point all year!
Players to watch
Mel Rowland – it is easy to think that Rowland has had a quiet season so far – but don’t forget – 4 TD’s in her first game this year, another 2 TD’s playing the Spear-nadoes 2 weeks ago.
Dani De Groot – Can run. Can pass. Always a concern for opposition defences.
Katie Williams – What more can be said about Williams. A dangerous WR and at times a punishing D End. A must for rookie of the year.
Pettra Zucchelli – Just when you think you’ve made a break – WHAM – Bam Bam blindsides you.
Tracey Stuart – Always a handful on the line and opposition running backs have nightmares of her running full steam at them.
Kaya Hinge – Safe at the back – reliable when being called on as the defender of last resort.
My Tip: I’m excited about this match – but I think the Spear will be just too strong and will do it comfortably, in the end, to be crowned Territory Bowl champions for 2017.
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