Bulldogs dominate under sunny skies

IT WAS sunshine, smiles, and serious skill on display as the Bulldogs U16 Girls soared to a commanding victory over Hill End on Sunday afternoon at the Kennel. 

With clear skies and the sun beaming down on a picture-perfect Phillip Island day, the Bulldogs put on a performance to remember, finishing with a dominant 17.17 (119) to 0.0 (0) win.

Leading the charge was captain Bethany Grenness, who lit up the scoreboard with seven sensational goals, earning herself Best on Ground honours. Bethany’s agility, accuracy, and relentless pressure set the tone for the Bulldogs’ attack and left the Hill End defence scrambling.

She wasn’t alone – Piper Nicolaci proved just as dangerous, kicking three goals and showcasing clean hands and explosive pace through the midfield and goal sneak Jasmine Trapnell added three goals to the tally. Macey Stubbs and Sadie Davies provided the girls with plenty of goal assists while Ruby Kent-Ford, Gisele Smith, Kyra Carton, and Mackenzie Marr also contributed a goal each to round out the team’s impressive total.

Midfield general Gisele Smith was a standout in the engine room, linking up play and providing relentless drive through the centre. Lily (Elbow) Bow and Bethany Grenness dominated the wings, with Bethany’s run and carry providing plenty of opportunity inside 50.

The Bulldogs’ defence, led by Mackenzi Marr and Tess Ricardo, kept Hill End scoreless all match, applying pressure at every contest and clearing the ball with confidence. Mia Ward, Ruby King, and

Jasmine Campbell were also rock solid in defence and smart with their ball use, keeping the Hill End side well outside scoring range.

Head coach Diddy praised the team’s cohesion and spirit. 

“They played like a true unit today. The girls backed each other, moved the ball beautifully, and never let up. I couldn’t be prouder.”

With support from Lee (Woo) Woolford, injured teammates on the bench, as well as a strong local crowd cheering them on, the Bulldogs showed just how bright the future is for Phillip Island football.

The win adds momentum to what’s shaping up to be a promising season for the Bulldogs U16 Girls.

Final Score: Phillip Island 17.17.119 def Hill End 0.0.0

Best: Bethany Grenness, Piper Nicolaci, Ruby Kent-Ford, Gisele Smith, Sadie Davies, Lily (Elbow) Bow and Jasmine Trapnell.

Goals: Bethany Grenness 7, Piper Nicolaci 3, Jasmine Trapnell 3, Ruby Kent-Ford, Kyra Carton, Mackenzie Marr, Gisele Smith.