Norwood defeat Roosters to claim top spot

NORWOOD has claimed top spot on the Statewide Super Women’s League ladder with a convincing 22-point win over reigning Premiers, North Adelaide.

In near perfect conditions at the Parade, the hosts dominated the early going and had their major within the opening five minutes courtesy of a long-range goal by tough midfielder Mattia Breed.

The Redlegs dominated the inside 50 count (9-0) in the first quarter, however, were not able to capitalise on the opportunities created.

The second half started in a similar way as the first quarter ended, with Norwood controlling much of possession and generating several forward 50 entries.

The Legs were rewarded two minutes into the term, as consistent midfielder Ella Murison snapped onto her right to kick Norwood’s second major of the day.

Norwood continued to show poise and class in defence as Erika Sporn and Morgan Johnston were resolute in Redlegs back 50 repelling several North Adelaide attacks.

The Premiership quarter saw the Legs draw first blood, as Jess Macolino made no mistake from her set shot from 35 metres, before North responded with their first of the game two minutes after.

As North kicked their first, the tempo of the game lifted and despite the Roosters willingness to push for a second, it was Mattea Breed who shot out a crucial handball to Murison who ran in and converted from 25 metres to hand Norwood a 17-point lead heading into the final break.

With the job still not quite done, the Redlegs continued to pressure as midfielder Sophie Armitstead and ruck Leah Cutting were dominant around the stoppages with their tackle pressure a real highlight.

The Redlegs finished the game in style as talented youngster Jade Halfpenny kicked Norwood’s fifth to all but secure an impressive win against the Roosters.

Ruck Leah Cutting had a significant impact on the contest with 17 disposals, six marks and nine tackles while Ella Murison slotted two goals to go with her 13 possessions for the hosts.

SCOREBOARD:

NORWOOD: 1.0 2.0 4.0 5.0 (30)

NORTH ADELAIDE: 0.1 0.1 1.1 1.2 (8)

GOALKICKERS: Murison 2, Breed, Halfpenny. Macolino

BEST: Cutting, Johnston, Gallagher, Schwerdt