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The Belconnen Women’s Premier League Program scores three-from-three, with all grades now going through to this weekend’s Grand Finals.

Belconnen’s Premier League U18’s set the tone for the day with a solid 3-0 win over Tuggeranong in their 2nd vs 3rd semi final at Kambah. Having successfully accounted for their rivals on 3 occasions during the regular season, the Blue Devils were confident but expecting to be pushed hard by their opponents. The first half saw Belconnen deservedly go a goal ahead through the boot of Emma Bestek, after applying constant pressure on the Tuggeranong goal. The southerners remained dangerous on the counter attack however, and would surely have scored if it weren’t for the heroics of Jess Giovinazzo in goal. The second half saw more of the same, with Belconnen working hard to extend their lead, and continuing to have the better of the play. Imposing midfielder Nicole Jalocha was next to score, and would be followed by Caitlin Cantrill who sealed the result from the penalty spot. Although seemingly convincing on the scoreboard, the result was assured by some outstanding defence by the central pairing of Emma Heaney and Sian Minary Bland who fought tirelessly to repay Giovinazzo’s earlier efforts. The result gives the Baby Blue Devils every opportunity to cap off an already outstanding season with the major prize, and if the self belief currently within the camp is anything to go by, they are going to tough to beat.

With a win, a draw and a loss to each of their names during their 3 meetings in the regular season, Belconnen’s Premier League Reserves were anticipating a tough encounter against Belwest. Boosted by the availability of the same starting XI for their third successive match, the Blue Devils were confident that this previously unobtainable consistency would give them the edge that was needed, and it did! Although lacking some initial intensity, the Blue Devils were dominant and went in 2-0 in front at the break thanks to a first half brace by Clare Munro. Not content to sit back on their lead, Belconnen upped the ante in the second half and took full control of the match. The midfield trio worked tirelessly and were responsible for countless attacking raids which were supported well by the front three. Britt Smale was rewarded for an outstanding performance with a brace of her own in the second half, as did Jules Ibarra. As Belwest continued to push forward, the Belconnen defence was tested at times but also showed a new level of organisation and determination not to concede. The reward for all was an emphatic 6-0 score line at full time, but it was the collective efforts and desire within the squad as a whole which was most notable, and is exactly what the girls will need to bring into this weekend if they’re to collect the silverware.

Belconnen’s Premier League squad backed up the hype and showed their intent to go all the way this season, with a convincing 3-0 result against Belwest in the main game. Belconnen set out to attack and put in a solid first half, limiting Belwest’s opportunities largely by maintaining more discipline in a midfield, anchored by Amy Wilson. Presumably a new recruit, someone-or-other Fothergill(?) looked promising at the back, as did a resurgent Lauren Keir, with the young veteran showing she is ready to step up to the level needed during finals. The opening goal came from some good space being created by Katie Woodman which was capitalised upon by Caitlin Munoz, who picked up and drove the ball into the back of the net from the top of the box. 1-0 ahead at the break, Belconnen were determined to press home their advantage and came out of the sheds on the attack. Eager to increase the buffer, it was Keir who would register next on the scoresheet. After telepathically drawing the keeper off her line from 40yds out, Keir unleashed an audacious shot which sailed over the keeper and nestled itself in at the far post. Even the clouds applauded in the only way they could, and as the rain fell it was Snez Veljanovska who sealed the deal with a well deserved goal on the back of strong performance. With experience and youth all stepping up, the signs are good for Belconnen and this week they showed that they can play with both discipline and fireworks which will likely be the key again next week against Woden.

Premier League Grand Final – Belconnen United vs Woden Valley – KO 3pm

Premier League Reserves Grand Final – Belconnen United vs Woden Valley – KO 12:30pm

Premier League U18 Grand Final – Belconnen United vs Woden Valley – KO 10am