Round 15 of the 2024 TIO Central Australian Football League (CAFL) was a showcase of skill, resilience, and community spirit, with AFL Northern Territory partnering with No More to raise awareness against family and domestic violence.
In the Women’s competition, Rovers and Pioneer emerged victorious, while the match between Souths and Alkamilya was forfeited.
The Rovers maintained their commanding position at the top of the TIO CAFL ladder with a decisive 31-point win over West. Brooke Schembri played a pivotal role with her outstanding performance around the contest, complemented by Ella Slape, who was influential throughout the game and added a goal to her name.
Brylee Kerrin, recently named best on ground in the Under 23’s, continued her impressive form, showcasing exceptional running prowess along the half-forward flank and ending the match with two goals. Jodie Rayner also contributed with two goals, while Montanna Hudson excelled with a four-goal haul. Lara Harding’s performance further solidified her candidacy for the Margaret Liddle Medal, highlighting her impressive form.
West fought valiantly, with Lucie Burnod matching up well against her midfield opponents and scoring a goal. Rachel Davine’s precise passing enabled Caitlin Couch to capitalise with three goals, but West’s efforts fell short despite a commendable performance.
In the clash between Federal and Pioneer, the Eagles showcased their accuracy, turning the game in their favour. Federal’s Hayley Baliva, Danika McDonald, and Charlotte Rudd combined effectively, seeming poised for their second win of the season. However, Pioneer’s accurate kicking created a crucial buffer, and despite Federal’s efforts, the game slipped away. Bella Foster, Ella Fitz, and Kyanne Campbell were standout performers for the Eagles, who are now eyeing a move up the ladder into second place next weekend.
In the Men’s competition, Rovers secured a vital win over West, propelling them into third place on the ladder. Darren Abbott was instrumental for the Rovers, especially during a tight contest at three-quarter time. Forward Eric Campbell’s four goals were crucial, while Taylem Stubbs’s vocal leadership was evident. The Rovers capitalised on their territory dominance in the final quarter, with Stanley Waistcoat and Lucas Ross each contributing two goals.
West’s Chester Hunter was a standout performer, covering the ground impressively and scoring a goal, while Ben Ellis also made his mark with three goals. Despite their best efforts, West was unable to overcome the Rovers’ final-quarter surge.
Federal, on the other hand, achieved a measure of revenge over Pioneer with an 18-point victory, driven by a six-goal first term. Thomas Hynes was named best on ground for Federal, consistently winning ground balls and providing first use for teammates William Carlile and Braydon Weily, both of whom scored. Robby Bartee, Connor Mullins, and Daniel Gorry each contributed two goals, causing significant challenges for Pioneer’s defence. Abraham Ankers continued his impressive form with another three-goal performance, solidifying his standing in the Minahan Medal race.
Pioneer remained resilient, with Marcus McDonald and Waylon Manson putting in notable efforts until the final siren.