By Lance Jenkinson
In most other competitions, Caroline Springs would be the raging hot favourite for the premiership.
In the Western Region Football League senior women’s, Caroline Springs is just one of the chasing pack trying to catch up with ladder-leader Manor Lakes.
Caroline Springs is 9-1 with the huge percentage of 804.62 per cent – a number that would normally see you sitting in first place.
However, Manor Lakes has produced an out-of-this-world season so far – the Storm are 9-0 and on 2997.44 per cent.
Caroline Springs coach Anthea Stathakis said her side learnt a lot when the top two teams squared off just a month ago.
Much of what the Lakers have done at training since has been centred on redemption in this Saturday’s re-match at Town Centre Oval.
“I think that it’s going to be a real blockbuster between us and Manor Lakes,” Stathakis said. “I’m not going to give too much away, but we’re working on a few things to try and shut down their midfielders and forwards.
“I’m confident the girls are going to give 100 per cent.”
While it has not been enough to dislodge the top side, Caroline Springs could hardly have played any better in the opening 10 rounds.
The Lakers have averaged more than 100 points per game and conceded on average just 13 points per game.
“The girls have had a really good season,” Stathakis said. “The biggest issue you have when you’re beating teams by big margins, you don’t want the girls to become complacent, but they understand that.
“The girls know there’s no slacking off.
“We’ve got our goals for the remainder of the season and hopefully the ultimate prize at the end.”
Alexandra Fato has been the standout for Caroline Springs. A fearless onballer, Fato has been named in the Lakers best players in every game this season.
“I reckon she’s the best midfielder in the competition,” Stathakis said.
“She’s got great game sense, a beautiful kick and she’s very smart with her decisions.”
Caitlin Pretty has been the focal point in attack for Caroline Springs. Pretty has kicked 42 goals, including 18 in a single game, but could well have had more had she been used as a stay-at-home forward.
“I do rotate her between the positions, but she’s probably one of the best forwards in the league and shows it when she’s up there,” Stathakis said.
Caroline Springs’ defence has been watertight. The Lakers have kept opponents scoreless on four occasions.
Captain Alisha Jamieson has marshalled the defence with aplomb, while Amy Searle has been good one-on-one.
Emma Payne and Cassie Wilson have racked up the possessions across half-back.
