This past weekend, the final round of the senior talent academy games took place at North Hobart Oval with Tasmania men’s and women’s teams taking on Sydney/Canberra.
The women’s match kicked off the action, and the visitors made a strong start in trying conditions with 3.1 to a lone Tasmania behind in the first quarter.
Both sides registered 1.1 in the second term, meaning Sydney/Canberra held on to their quarter-time lead at the main break.
Neither team could register a major in the third term, however with a trio of minor scores Sydney/Canberra extended their lead to 21 at the last change.
Tasmania rallied in the final quarter and charged toward victory, however Sydney/Canberra held them off to win 4.6 (30) to 4.2 (26).
Aimee Whelan was dominant for Sydney/Canberra with nine tackles and 33 disposals and was awarded the medal as the best player afield for the visitors.
And for Tasmania, Sarah Skinner was prominent with seven tackles and 20 disposals and was deemed best on ground for the hosts.
The men’s game got underway soon after, and the home side were excellent early with five goals to two in the opening quarter.
Tasmania and Sydney/Canberra kicked three goals apiece in the second quarter and the former led by as much at half-time.
Despite some inaccuracy, Sydney/Canberra restricted Tasmania’s scoring in the third term and took the lead before three-quarter-time, in front by six points with a term remaining.
The final quarter was a thrilling affair, however Sydney/Canberra were ultimately too good, winning 10.13 (73) to 10.3 (63).
Sydney/Canberra’s Kale Gabila was judged best afield for the victors, while Tasmania’s Andrew Phillips took home the best on ground medal for the home side.
With their wins at North Hobart Oval, both of Sydney/Canberra’s teams took home the cups for the series.