Purple patch seals win for Poochettes

Gunnedah captain Khobi Devine and coach Jakob Vearing raise the Josh McKenzie Cup after winning the 2023 AFL North West Women's Grand Final.

FOUR third quarter goals in the space of eight minutes was the burst of scoring Gunnedah produced to win the 2023 AFL North West Women’s premiership.

Playing in front of their home crowd and with a sideline DJ playing Baha Men’s “Who Let the Dogs Out” ad nauseum, the Poochettes were locked in an arm wrestle against Inverell until the purple patch.

In the first half Gunnedah was wasteful in front of goal, kicking just nine behinds. Inverell was able to take more advantage of its forward forays and a first quarter major by Katrina Doak gave the Saints an early advantage.

Gunnedah’s peppering of the goals resulted in just a one point lead at the long break.

After the resumption a goal by Breeana Ward momentarily opened up the flood gates for the Poochettes By the time Khobi Devine soccered a goal from the square, the Poochettes had opened up a 24 point lead.

In the final term Inverell threw everything except the kitchen sink at Gunnedah but try as the Saints might, they couldn’t bridge the gap. But they forced Gunnedah to fight and scrap right until the final siren to defend their hard earned lead.

GRAND FINAL DETAILS

Gunnedah 0.7 0.9 4.10 4.10 (34)

Inverell  1.0  1.2  1.5  2.9 (21)

Goals – Gunn: Brerana Ward, Zoe Palmer, Chelsea Palmer, Khobi Devine. Inv: Clare McCosker, Katrina Doak.

Best on Ground Award: Katrina Rekunow (Gunnedah)