SHADES of the Matildas at the FIFA Women’s World Cup shone through in Sunraysia as Mildura City and Nichols Point were forced into a penalty shootout to decide the S-League senior women’s grand final.
It may not have gone to the same lengths as the Aussies thriller against France last month, with City winning 3-1, but the 120 minutes beforehand were similar in intensity and action.
It was somewhat fitting that what was lauded as the best game of the year in the division came to fruition on the final day of the campaign.
The young Point side went toe-to-toe with a City squad who have been the dominant force in recent years and kept them goalless for 90 minutes and the extra half an hour added on to finish 0-0.
City captain Isabella Palamara missed the first penalty but was given a reprieve with Point keeper Christine Cottrell coming off her line.
However, she couldn’t score the second either.
City keeper Ava Gemits, chanelling her inner Mackenzie Arnold, put in a brilliant display with the gloves as Nichols Point could manage to get only one shot past the 14-year-old custodian.
Chenoa Hunter and Lillee Driscoll each put their shots away before City best and fairest winner Macaila Britton played the role of Courtnee Vine to score the penalty which secured the title.
City coach Tori Mosello said she couldn’t be prouder of her side, while also acknowledging the outstanding performance form their opponents..
“Both both sides really brought their A game and the defence and goal keeping of both teams was brilliant to watch.
“I think with the defensive pressure so high neither side probably got as many shots away as they might have during the season but it made for a great game to watch.
“I think this game shows the incredible talent that’s here.
“If we can get the support it could be one of the biggest women’s sports in Sunraysia.”
As well as the anxiety of the result hanging on the shootout, it creates nervous moments for another reason for the coach.
“I’m 38 weeks pregnant so a lot of people were asking if I was going to give birth,” Mosello said.
“A shootout is exciting but also a very anxious time for players and coaches.
“Obviously with their eyes on the prize, all players were really focused on doing what they could, and both teams put in a great performance.
“I told my girls from the start to play it like any game but having a bigger crowd, more noise and a bit more pressure on, it’s easier said than done.”
Mosello also paid tribute to the impact of Britton over a number of years.
“Micaila has been part of the club for a long time and has played senior football from probably age 13,” she said.
“She’s a brilliant player and, sure, she would be on top of the world after scoring the winner.”
Chelsea Pollifrone was named player of the match.
It marks the double for Mildura City this season after already securing the league title.
