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Game called off prematurely

Robert DoughertyNorth West Telegraph
Karratha Jets and South Hedland Swanettes scramble for the footy in their match on Saturday.
Camera IconKarratha Jets and South Hedland Swanettes scramble for the footy in their match on Saturday. Credit: North West Telegraph

South Hedland Swanettes’ first official game of the year was abruptly called off in the third quarter against the Karratha Jets at the weekend.

Both teams were off to a flying start under the clear sunlit skies of Hedland, with the Jets kicking eight points (1.2) and Swanettes slotting nine (1.3) in the first quarter at Kevin Scott Oval on Saturday.

Karratha Jets and South Hedland Swanettes clash in a ruck contest.
Camera IconKarratha Jets and South Hedland Swanettes clash in a ruck contest. Credit: North West Telegraph

South Hedland Swans president Barry Taylor said he was impressed with the skill level of football from both teams.

“I thought it was great, certainly pioneering for the women’s footy and good for the future,” he said.

“It was a very competitive match for a first game.

“The girls were bit over-exuberant and we hope to travel for a return game in Karratha.”

Problems arose in the later stages of the game, which was called off in the third quarter — Hedland finishing with a score of 42 (6.6) against Karratha’s 15 (2.3).

South Hedland Swanettes' gathered at the bench before heading out onto Kevin Scott Oval.
Camera IconSouth Hedland Swanettes' gathered at the bench before heading out onto Kevin Scott Oval. Credit: North West Telegraph

Jets coach Norm Bilston said the game was ended prematurely because of physicality during the match. “Our women’s footy is pretty solid, we have got 35 girls on the books (but) our competition down there is a lot cleaner,” he said during the match.

“(The Swanettes’) skill level if they were here to play decent footy is half reasonable, but for women’s football I’m pretty disappointed.

“I’m pretty disappointed that we have travelled up here for this and they are carrying on like this.

“I’m borderline packing the girls up and going home — it’s very disappointing.”

Karratha Jets and South Hedland Swanettes rush to grab the footy at Kevin Scott Oval.
Camera IconKarratha Jets and South Hedland Swanettes rush to grab the footy at Kevin Scott Oval. Credit: North West Telegraph

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