By Tara Murray
Melton Centrals took it up to Redan in the AFL Goldfields’ Women’s preliminary final on Sunday, but their season ultimately came to an end.
With little expectations, Centrals have been enjoyed the finals roller coaster that has seen the side continue to improve each week.
On Sunday, they faced their biggest finals test so far, taking on Redan for a spot in the grand final.
It was a low scoring game, with Centrals right in the mix.
The game came to an unfortunate end, called off with 10 minutes to go.
Centrals coach Ray Martin said it had been a good game to that point.
“One of our girls Natalie Edwards was leveled out and an ambulance was called,” he said.
“The game was called off with 10 minutes to go. I agreed with the decision, safety of the players is more important.”
Redan was leading 1.6 (12)-0.3 (3) when the match was called off and will progress through to the grand final.
Martin was thrilled with what his side had put out on the park.
“It’s the best I’ve seen them play,” he said.
“The ball was in our forward 50 when it was called off. We had our chances and it was a hard fought game.”
Martin said they felt the performance had earned them respect from other teams in the competition, proving it wasn’t just a two team race.
Having had a brand new side this year, Martin said they had exceeed all expectations and had set a plat form for the future.
Edwards was named league rookie of the year, while two other Melton Centrals players finished in the top three of the league best and fairest award.
Allana Porter, Emmerson Hitch and Edwards were named in the team of the year.
With their under-18s in the grand final, Martin said the future is bright at the club.
