By Tara Murray
Bacchus Marsh’s next generation is stepping up to mark with success in the Ballarat Football League women’s competition.
After the departure of some players in the off season, the Cobras have looked within to strengthen its senior squad.
It’s something coach Alan Johnson said had been working really well.
“We had been low on numbers but we are working our way through it,” he said. “We had some challenges at the start.
“We’ve had some juniors come up and do a good job and the squad has a good balance.
“The collaboration between the 19s and seniors has been really good.
“We’ve got some really good groups of young girls coming through the 14s, 16s and some new ones in the 18s.
“It’s exciting to see them all.”
After making a preliminary final last season, Johnson said the focus for the group this season was to again be competitive and see how they go.
He said both Darley and Redan were again the pace setters and had really strong squads.
Johnson said the group had taken some confidence out of a recent week against the Devils.
“It was a good team performance and I thought that everyone played their role and the way they went out it was really good.
“It was our best performance of the season.”
The Cobras backed it up on Sunday as they beat Lake Wendouree.
The Cobras led early and were able to extend the margin out to 71 points at the last break having kept the Lakers goalless until that stage.
While the Lakers finally got on the board in the final quarter, the Cobras had done the damage as they won 12.15 (87)-2.3 (15).
Isabella Faralla kicked six goals for the Cobras.
Melanie Freeman and Jacinta Reid were named the Cobras best.
The Cobras sit third on the ladder.
There is a league wide bye this weekend which Johnston said came at a good time for the side.
“It’s nice to have a bit of a break,” he said. “With those girls also playing in under-19s it can be a bit tiring.
“It comes at a good time.”
Darley was also on the winners list on Sunday, beating East Point easily.
The Devils were able to build on the lead throughout on the way to a 14.14 (98)-1.0 (6) win.
Kim Bessell kicked eight goals for the Devils.
Charli Parsons Jones and Evie Fitzgerald were named the Devils best.
The Devils remain clear on top.
