It was pleasing to watch the sportsmanship displayed by both sides, and the Coota girls stayed positive; giving it their all until the final whistle.

Strikers captain, Kristen Leak, was impressed by the standard set by the opposition.

“The Tolland girls have a lot of skill; you’ve got to match that skill and level of fitness to win the game,” Leak said.

“We were up against girls like Bernie Madden (Bernadette Blake) and Elisha Ward who’ve been playing for years.”

Leak was content with the match as, “the whole team stepped up” and played to their potential.

Midfielder, Ash Holder, combined grace with power, and held possession for the team. 

“Ash ran her arse off, she has the skill...lots of skill, she got past players, and she’s pretty fit,” Leak said.

Leak and coach, Annette Parkinson, are almost certain that Holder’s talent will bring success, “I hope she’s hit a stride now and can continue to further her talent.”

Honourable mentions went to Stacey Boxsell, Ash Heritage, Ash Haines, Leanne Anderson and Janine Cross.

“Over the last year it’s incredible to see them becoming what they are; very good players who are vital to the team,” she said.

In closing, Leak also mentioned the great support and friendship gains from her younger sister, Jess Leak, who is a stronghold in defence.

The Strikers will keep their heads held high, and (capt) Leak is hoping to work on skills and strategy leading up the game on the weekend.